Defensive Spotlight: Derek Stingley Jr. lets his play do the talking

On his best day, Houston Texans star Derek Stingley Jr. may be the best cornerback in the NFL | Cooper Neill/GettyImagesUnlike many players at his position, Derek Stingley Jr. isn't one for self-promotion. The 4th-year Houston Texans cornerback prefers to let his play do the talking, and over the last few seasons, he's said plenty.

Heading into the 2025 NFL season, Stingley was named the 18th-best player in the NFL by his peers, the highest of any player on the Houston Texans roster. Combining flawless technique, sticky coverage, top-tier closing speed and some of the best hands you'll ever see from a defensive back, Stingley's side of the field is often a no-fly zone for opposing…