Houston Texans say goodbye to Whitney Mercilus, cut longtime DE

The Houston Texans have decided to let Whitney Mercilus walk.

In what is definitely a rebuilding move, one of the most recognizable Houston Texans will no longer be a part of the team (stop me if you’ve heard this before). Whitney Mercilus is being let go in what is going to be a youth movement.

As of right now, it’s unclear if Mercilus had been put on the trade block in any sort of way. Mercilus’ three sacks on the season must have been the signal for General Manager Nick Caserio to let the 10-year veteran out of Illinois.

This leaves Johnathon Greenard, Jacob Martin, Jordan Jenkins, and Charles Omenihu as the only active defensive ends on the roster. It was something that eventually had to be done, but couldn’t the Texans wait until he can get another game at home before making this move? It’s kind of cruel, and at the same time, it’s a business for a reason.

Whitney Mercilus leaves behind big Houston Texans legacy

Mercilus is second on the list of career sacks, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries for the Texans, with 57 sacks to his name. That’s far behind what J.J. Watt did (101 sacks), but that still is an incredible feat in itself.

Mercilus also comes in 14th place on the career tackles leaderboard for Houston as well.

Hopefully, Mercilus goes to a contender and has a chance to get a Super Bowl ring. For someone who’s been a part of the Texans so long, Mercilus is deserving of a better team to play for. It’s tough to see him go, but Texans fans will always remember what he gave to the franchise.

Best of luck Whitney!