Inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney is the Texans' designated defensive signal caller with a helmet device to communicate with the coaching staff.
McKinney had those duties even prior to veteran Brian Cushing being suspended last week for violating the NFL performance-enhancing drug policy.
Texans defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel indicated Wednesday that McKinney had the green dot on his helmet all year, connoting that status.
It's a nod to the growing responsibilities for the second-team All-Pro.
"I think that the overall thing, the biggest thing, has just been his leadership, his demeanor out there on the field, his communication, his understanding," Vrabel said of McKinney.