Corey Moore emerges as Texans starting safety

Quietly, without fanfare or much recognition, former undrafted free agent Corey Moore has emerged as the starting free safety for the top-ranked defense in the NFL.

A second-year pro from Georgia, Moore replaced Andre Hal in the Texans' starting lineup and has started each of the past four games. His statistics have been modest, recording 20 tackles and three passes defended with zero interceptions. However, Moore's tackling has been sounder than an inconsistent Hal.

Hal remains a factor in pass coverage, working in on third downs. For the season, he has 42 tackles, one sack and two interceptions.

"I'm the type that's very hard on myself," Moore said. "There's always room for improvement. I…