A rush job

The Texans have the potential for one of the most formidable pass rushes in the NFL with their front seven headlined by star defensive end J.J. Watt, who finished second in the NFL last season with 20½ sacks. He also had 51 quarterback hits. Here’s a look at the other Texans pass rushers as the team tries to manufacture a stronger collective effort.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

WHITNEY MERCILUS Career sacks: 18. 2014 sacks, QB hits, QB hurries:

5, 11, 25.

Comment:

Athletic all-around linebacker is Texans’ most accomplished pass rusher not named J.J. Watt.

DEFENSIVE END

JARED CRICK Career sacks: 3½. 2014 sacks, QB hits, QB hurries: 3½, 12, 14. Comment: Hard-nosed former Nebraska standout plays with power, relentless style; enters a contract year.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

JOHN SIMON Career sacks: 1½. 2014 sacks, QB hits, QB hurries: 1½, 6, 9. Comment: Former Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year from Ohio State is one of the strongest players on the roster, but is working to refine his repertoire of moves.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

JADEVEON CLOWNEY Career sacks: 0. 2014 sacks, QB hits, QB hurries: 0, 3, 0. South Carolina career: 24 sacks, 47 tackles for losses, 20 quarterback pressures. Comment: Top overall pick’s rookie season was derailed by a knee injury and he’s on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing microfracture knee surgery. Projected to return for the season opener Sept. 13 against the Chiefs, Clowney’s medical progress is pivotal to defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel’s 3-4 scheme.