Andre Hal bulks up, believes good things are coming
By Randy Gurzi
Houston Texans safety Andre Hal believes good things are coming for him and the defense as he looks to expand upon a successful 2015 season
The Houston Texans finished their 2015 season with a record of 9-7 and the title of AFC South champion. The biggest reason for that success was the play of their defense, and one of the unexpected starters from that group believes even bigger things could be coming, including himself.
Andre Hal was a seventh round pick from Vanderbilt in 2014 and after minimal time on the field as a rookie, the cornerback made a move in position over to safety. The move was deemed a success as Hal finished the season as a starter and hauled in four interceptions from his new position.
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Despite his impressive interception total, Hal lacked somewhat in the tackling department as he recorded just 36 take downs last season. That’s something he hopes to build on going forward and to help do so, he is once again bulking up this offseason.
Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle said that Hal has changed his diet and has “haunted the weight room.” Hal himself has said that he feels stronger and has lifted more this offseason than ever before.
"“I lifted more this year and gained some strength, and the weight came with the strength…I’ve never been one of the bigger guys,” Hal said via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. “I don’t think size matters. You see Tyrann Mathieu, he’s one of the best safeties in the league right now. He’s not the biggest guy. It doesn’t really matter about your size. It’s about your heart and your mindset. I go out there and play hard like I’m not afraid of anything. You can’t be afraid.”"
Listed at 5-foot-10 and 195 pounds, Hal was able to extend his time in Houston by moving to safety after the corner position became rather crowded. He said the unit is like a group of brothers and the feeling in Houston is that the needle is still pointing up for the Texans defense.
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As for Houston fans, it’s probably safe to say they hope after a full offseason as a starter Hal can be compared to Tyrann Mathieu in more ways than just a similar stature.