1. J.J. Watt, DE, Houston Texans
Watt posted 10.5 sacks despite drawing double teams, and this is considered an “off year” for him since he had 20.5 sacks in 2012, which earned him Defensive Player of the Year. He had to deal without inside linebacker Brian Cushing for just about the whole season, but Cushing will return. Plus, first overall pick Jadeveon Clowney will be around to take pressure off Watt.
This will make the Texans defense extremely dangerous and give offensive coordinators nightmares. If Watt can get to at least 15 sacks, he will instantly contend for a second award. This shouldn’t be a problem for him since Clowney will draw attention away from him.
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