Houston Texans Star Pass Rusher ‘Impressed’ by Will Anderson Jr.

The Houston Texans – under first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans – were home to both Defensive Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year, passer Will Anderson Jr. and quarterback fullback CJ Stroud.

The franchise equipped emerging Stroud with another weapon, wide receiver, Stefon Diggs, adding Nico Collins and Tank Dell to the corps. The additions, however, continued on the offensive side. The Texans added setter Danielle Hunter via free agency to play opposite Anderson.

The 29-year-old passer immediately elevates the team’s defensive ceiling while providing critical mentorship to Anderson, who evolved the defense during his rookie campaign. They had the opportunity to work together throughout the offseason.

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“We did a lot of hand work, a lot of hand sparring. We were actually doing this exercise and he grabbed my wrist, and I thought he almost broke my wrist because he’s so strong,” Anderson said of Hunter. “But he just taught me the ropes of keeping my hands active in my running.”

Again, there are more benefits to adding Hunter than short-term winning impact. He’s going to be huge for Anderson’s development.

“He has so much wisdom and knowledge that he passes it on to every guy in the room,” Anderson continued.

Hunter, the veteran between the two, was able to get a glimpse of Anderson’s potential.

“I’m really impressed with Will,” Hunter said. “It’s like he’s in 4th, 5th or 6th grade – how he plays and how he carries himself. He still holds himself accountable. He still goes out and practices with the same attitude every day, trying to lead a group from the front. You don’t see that in the first year players.

Although both men will be disruptive in the backfield during the season, they will be able to build a good relationship over the years.

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Stay with TexansGameday for more coverage on the Houston Texans throughout the offseason.

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