Houston Texans vs. Los Angeles Chargers: 3 Players to watch
1. Whitney Mercilus, OLB, Texans
Having eight tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception, the first two weeks of a contract season for outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus are proving to be the start of a special season for the veteran linebacker.
Mercilus had two sacks last Sunday afternoon against the Jacksonville, and in Week 1 he was able to secure his first career interception off future Hall of Fame selection Drew Brees.
The 29-year-old Mercilus is proving to many that if given the correct role in the Texans’ 3-4 defense, he can shine. Mercilus is basically taking over the role vacated by Jadeveon Clowney, and in his new role where he can play with a little more aggression, Mercilus is wreaking havoc.
Last season, Mercilus was returning from an injury that cost him 11 regular-season games in ’17, but following an ’18 season where he had four sacks and 39 tackles, Mercilus is well on his way to exceed those numbers.
It will also be interesting to watch Mercilus in not only his pass rush of Philip Rivers, but how he plays a coverage role on Sunday against a quarterback with the talent of Rivers.
Next. Don’t expect the Texans to sign Antonio Brown anytime soon. dark
Going from playing a rookie last Sunday to one of the more veteran passers in the league will be a great difference for Mercilus, but with how he’s playing this season — as he also has a pass defensed — keep an eye on Mercilus, who will bring aggressive football action against Los Angeles.