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Texans rank second for NFL's defensive triplets, behind Rams

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 4:18 PM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Texans rank second for NFL's defensive triplets, behind Rams

Summary

Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano ranks the Houston Texans' defensive triplets second for the 2026 NFL season. The trio includes All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr., Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. Houston's defense played a significant role in their 12-win season last year, despite a challenging start. Manzano notes that while the Texans' duo of Anderson and Stingley is formidable, the Los Angeles Rams, led by Myles Garrett, take the top spot. The Rams also added Trent McDuffie, enhancing their defensive lineup. This ranking highlights the strengths of the Texans' defense as they head into the new season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Texans' triplet ranks second behind Rams' triplet.
•Will Anderson Jr. and Derek Stingley Jr. are key players.
•Texans won 12 games last season despite early struggles.
•Rams acquired Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie this offseason.
•Ranking highlights the Texans' defensive capabilities for 2026.

Latest Updates

4:18 PMYahoo Sports — Sports Illustrated not sold on Texans having the NFL's top defensive triplets for 2026

What they're saying

"
Everyone talks about team-level play, but what would happen if fans only looked at trifectas? Where would the Houston Texans rank among defender triplets? Apparently not No. 1.
— Yahoo Sports

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Houston Texans Kansas City Chiefs Los Angeles Rams NFL Football