Texans players to watch: DT Earl Mitchell

When Wade Phillips was brought in as the Texans DC one of the biggest questions was who'd play NT in his 3-4 defensive scheme. With veteran Shaun Cody already on the team the Texans used what they had for the past couple seasons. But back in the 2010 draft the Texans drafted who they the player they saw plugging up the middle in that defense for years to come. That player was DT Earl Mitchell from the University of Arizona. Mitchell is now primed and ready to step in and make plays now with Shaun Cody no longer with the Texans.

Mitchell has spent the last 2 seasons 2nd on the depth chart. He used the time wisely though getting himself physically and mentally ready to step in and make a difference for this defense. In limited time Mitchell's shown he can be a difference maker. He's shown the ability to get to the QB as well as the smarts to get his hands up and swat passes like teammate and DPOY JJ Watt. If Mitchell can stay healthy he could have a very productive year with the Texans defensive unit.