When the Texans were coaching in the Senior Bowl all-star game last winter, they got to know South Carolina State standout linebacker Darius Leonard.
And they were extremely impressed with Leonard's instincts, athleticism and hard-hitting style.
The Texans aren't surprised by how Leonard has excelled as a rookie for the Indianapolis Colts.
Leonard led the NFL with 163 tackles to go with seven sacks, four forced fumbles and two interceptions. He had eight tackles, one interception and two passes defensed in a regular-season finale win over the Tennessee Titans to clinch a playoff berth against the Texans on Saturday at NRG Stadium.