During his breakthrough season, gritty Texans outside linebacker John Simon provided a reliable presence as a pass rusher and run-stopper.
As former top overall pick Jadeveon Clowney frequently battled injuries, Simon played in every game and started half of them. He recorded a career-high 53 tackles and five sacks for the AFC South champions.
Now that Simon is a restricted free agent, the Texans are expected to secure him for next season with a qualifying tender offer. Simon is a former Baltimore Ravens fourth-round draft pick from Ohio State where he was a Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year.