The transformation of Jadeveon Clowney from an injury-prone former top overall draft pick into a disruptive Pro Bowl defensive end helped boost the Texans into the top-ranked defense.
Clowney remained healthy for the majority of the season, missing two games with wrist and elbow injuries that forced him to withdraw from the Pro Bowl. A former top overall pick from South Carolina, Clowney recorded a career-high six sacks and 16 tackles for losses this season. His play was more impactful than his statistics showed as offenses struggled to find ways to block Clowney, who lined up everywhere from defensive end, outside linebacker, inside linebacker and defensive tackle.