The Houston Texans have a solid defense this season and will be relying on former second-round pick Benardrick McKinney to grow as a leader.
McKinney totaled 105 combined tackles, 63 solo tackles, and five quarter back hits. The former Mississippi standout has played in all 16 games since his sophomore season in 2016.
“He’s one of our better players and leaders,” coach Bill O’Brien told reporters on Wednesday after the second day of minicamp. “He has a real good grasp of our defense. He’s here every day, very consistent guy, high-performing guy, smart player, tough player, dependable player.”
McKinney has a real shot to be the leader of this Texans defensive unit. With continual growth year after year, there is little doubt that McKinney can handle that title.
The beneficial part of McKinney’s leadership is it is all in the middle of the defense. Defensive end J.J. Watt brings leadership from the top of the defense, and the sooner edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney can return, the sooner the Texans can have leadership by example.
