Texans OLB Mario Williams is done for the season after tearing a pectoral muscle in Sunday’s loss to Oakland, according to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle. That leaves Williams’ starting spot to 2nd-round rookie Brooks Reed. The former Arizona Wildcat had a 2-sack game in the preseason and registered 2 QB hits and 4 tackles (3 solo) Sunday after replacing Williams.
Reed had tallied just 43 snaps before Week 5, so we’ll see what kind of impact he can make with more time. His immediate fantasy outlook isn’t exciting. Houston’s next 5 opponents all ranked 17th or better in Football Outsiders’ adjusted sack rate through Week 4. Fellow rookie Brian Braman — a preseason revelation — figures to see a bit more work as well. Williams’ loss certainly hurts the D overall, but it doesn’t kill the Texans’ value. DE Antonio Smith has led been the top-performing pass rusher so far, according to Pro Football Focus. Reed, Braman and Connor Barwin give the team talent on the outside, and LB Brian Cushing is a strong pass rusher as well. He could see more blitz opportunities going forward.
