Five Under The Radar Free Agents The Houston Texans Should Target: Defense

Nov 9, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back

(24) rushes for his fourth touchdown of the game against New York Giants free safety

(27) during the fourth quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Stevie Brown, Free Safety, New York Giants

While the Texans starter at free safety, Kendrick Lewis (also a free agent), had a decent season last year, Stevie Brown of the New York Giants could be a steal in free agency.

Brown has had an up and down career since being picked by the Oakland Raiders in the 7th round of the 2010 draft. Yet, when healthy he has been a playmaker, which was seen in 2012 when Brown recorded 8 interceptions.

Brown played 2014 on a one-year deal after an ACL tear cost him his entire 2013 season. Stevie was unable to parlay the multi-interception season into a large payday, but that can play right into the hands of the Houston Texans.

Brown would be able to compete for a spot and either win out a job or possibly make Lewis, or a rookie yet to be drafted improve their level of play. The truth is Brown may be even healthier this year, but playing while recovering last year could make him more affordable for Houston.

Brown believed he was trying too hard to pick up right where he left off in 2012, not fully understanding his limitations after the injury. He opened up about his feelings in a New York Post article from December by Mark Cannizzaro.

"“I was trying to pick up exactly where I left off in 2012 and make plays right off the bat and I was just putting myself in bad positions. I was trying to force the issue instead of just playing my responsibilities and making the plays I was supposed to make.’’ – Stevie Brown"

If Brown gets his head and knee right, and is even reminiscent of the player he was in 2012, he could be the steal of the offseason.

Next: A Linebacker Moving Back Inside