Jadeveon Clowney emerged as one of the more dangerous run-stoppers and pass rushers in the NFL a year ago when J.J. Watt underwent a pair of back surgeries.
Now, the Texans will count heavily on Clowney to operate as Watt's replacement again with the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year sidelined with a tibial plateau fracture.
Plus, outside linebacker Whitney Mercilius is out for the season with a torn pectoral.
"I'm going to have to," Clowney said when asked if he'll need to expand his role with both key players out for the remainder of the season.