Houston Texans Rookie Review: A.J. Moore & Gregory Howell

The Houston Texans claimed undrafted defensive back A.J. Moore and running back Gregory Howell off waivers prior to the start of the 2018 regular season.

Houston Texans general manager Brian Gaine not only had a great draft class in his first year on the job, but the front office also excelled in finding talented players from other NFL rosters. The Texans claimed defensive back A.J. Moore from the New England Patriots and running back Gregory Howell who spent the training camp and preseason with the Miami Dolphins. Both players went undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft but played a role in the Texans successful regular season.

Without playing a single snap with the Texans, they were both selected to be part of the 53 man roster going into the regular season. The Texans special teams improved drastically under new special teams coordinator Brad Seely, Moore and Howell didn’t see a significant role at their respective positions on offense and defensive game plans, but they excelled in their first year on special teams.

Moore led the team with 11 special team tackles in the regular season meanwhile Howell was tied second with nine special team tackles. The Texans turnaround in the special team’s department was instrumental in the team’s nine-game winning streak after starting 0-3. and finishing 11-5.

Special teams were one of the Texans most consistent units throughout the season. They did not allow an opposing team to return a punt or a kick for a touchdown and did a great job in limiting teams from having great field position. Howell and Moore are part of the promising young nucleus of players that can continue to build on their success on special teams moving forward.