Whitney Mercilus' fast start doesn't come as a surprise to the Texans' veteran outside linebacker.
Even before the Texans traded Pro Bowl outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney to the Seattle Seahawks, Mercilus was getting ready to resume his natural pass-rushing role.
Named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week after recording two sacks and two forced fumbles during a 13-12 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Mercilus already has three sacks and one interception through two games.
"It all goes back to all the preparation and work that I've done the entire year," said Mercilus, who's in the final year of a four-year, $26 million contract.