Top 5 Houston Texans Of All Time: Defense

Number 3

Mario Williams – DE – 2006-2011

“Super Mario” was one of the most controversial picks in recent NFL Draft history. The Texans selected him with the first overall pick in 2006, over USC running back Reggie Bush and UT quarterback Vince Young, who many thought could be the first pick. Williams, however, did not disappoint.

Williams played well in his first season in Houston, starting every game, but it wasn’t until his sophomore year that he really emerged as one of the league’s top pass-rushers. In 2007 he racked up 59 tackles, 14 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.

Super Mario was selected to play in the Pro Bowl twice as a Texan (2008, 2009), as well as being named an All-Pro First Team player (2008), and Second Team player (2007). He was also chosen as the NFL Alumni Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2007.

Williams remains second on the Texans all-time sack list and forced fumbles list, with 26 more sacks (53) than the next highest player on the list (DE Antonio Smith with 27). Sadly, his injuries limited him when he played for Houston, but he holds his position as one of the most dominant pass-rushers of his time.

Williams continues to play well, now with the Buffalo Bills, and has accumulated 38 sacks in his three seasons since leaving Houston. His legacy as a Texan, however, is one of dominance and physicality, marking him as one of the best to ever don a Houston Texans jersey.

Next: Number 2