Why the Houston Texans should sign Henry Melton
Nov 25, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) is sacked by Chicago Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton (69) during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Texans really need to improve their interior defensive line, and they can do that in free agency as I believe they need to take a serious look at free agent Henry Melton.
Melton, who played the past six seasons for the Chicago Bears, only played in three games last season due to an injury.
For his career, he has played in 48 games with a combined 89 tackles (66 solo) with 15.5 sacks.
In 2012, Melton had a career-high 44 combined tackles and six sacks, so he does have a lot of talent to play the defensive line in the NFL.
The question, though, is how will Melton play after returning from his season-ending left ACL injury from last season?
If he can play healthy next year, the Texans should be interested in Melton during this free agent period for the fact their own defensive line struggled last year, and they really need to get some help for defensive end J.J. Watt.
Earl Mitchell (defensive tackle) and Antonio Smith (defensive end) are free agents, and it looks like both aren’t returning to the team next season.
From what I’ve seen of Melton in the past, I think he can be a big upgrade for the Texans if they are willing to spend some money in free agency.
If they were to sign Melton, and possibly draft South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney with the No. 1 overall pick in May, think of how dangerous that defensive line could be to the 2014 opponents.
One of the teams said to be interested in Melton is the other team from Texas, the Dallas Cowboys, who also have problems with their defensive line.
What are your thoughts on Melton and the Texans’ defensive line?
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