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With Jadeveon Clowney gone, Texans depend on Whitney Mercilus

HOUSTON -- After the Houston Texans traded Jadeveon Clowney to the Seahawks before the start of the season, defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel pointed to outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus as someone who needed to help replace some of the pass rush they’d be losing.

In two games Mercilus has done that, with three sacks, three quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, a tackle for a loss and an interception. He has three of the Texans’ five sacks this season.

Mercilus didn’t rush the passer as much last season and instead was asked to drop back in coverage.