Unveiling the Top 10 Houston Texans of All Time: Icons of a Young Franchise
When you think of iconic figures in the Houston Texans’ history, names like Andre Johnson and J.J. Watt probably spring to mind. Yet, they’re not the only stars who’ve shaped the Texan legacy. Players like DeAndre Hopkins and Arian Foster have dazzled fans with their athletic prowess, while steady leadership from quarterbacks Matt Schaub and David Carr helped anchor the offense.
But who else deserves recognition among the Top 10 Houston Texans of All Time? Some players may not get the spotlight but have left an undeniable mark with their grit and contributions. Each name on this list tells a story of dedication and moments that helped define the Texans as a franchise.
Table of Contents
1. J.J. Watt
- Years Played for the Team: 2011-2020
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 288 lbs
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J.J. Watt is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Houston Texans history. Drafted in 2011, Watt quickly made a name for himself with his relentless play style and extraordinary defensive capabilities.
Known for his strength, speed, and tenacity, Watt consistently terrorized opposing quarterbacks while providing stellar leadership on and off the field. His iconic “swat” of passes led to multiple defensive and team victories.
Watt’s commitment to excellence and charitable efforts off the field have left a lasting legacy in Houston, cementing his status as a beloved figure in the community.
- Accolades:
- 3× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2012–2015, 2018)
- Houston Texans Ring of Honor inductee
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2017)
2. Andre Johnson
- Years Played for Team: 2003-2014
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 230 lbs
Andre Johnson is one of the most iconic players in Houston Texans history, known for his exceptional athleticism and consistency. As a wide receiver, Johnson’s blend of size, speed, and precise route-running made him a formidable opponent for any defense.
Over his 12 seasons with the Texans, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His ability to perform in clutch situations and provide veteran leadership was pivotal for the team’s success.
Johnson’s legacy is cemented as a cornerstone of the Texans’ offensive strategy throughout the 2000s and early 2010s.
- Accolades:
- 7× Pro Bowl selection (2004, 2006, 2008-2010, 2012, 2013)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2008, 2009)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2012)
- Houston Texans Ring of Honor inductee
3. DeAndre Hopkins
- Years Played for Houston Texans: 2013-2019
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’1″/212 lbs
DeAndre Hopkins, often referred to by his nickname “Nuk,” rapidly ascended to become one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers during his tenure with the Houston Texans. Known for his incredible catching radius and exceptional hands, Hopkins was a cornerstone of the Texans’ offense.
His ability to make spectacular catches and his physical playing style made him a favorite target for multiple quarterbacks, regardless of the team’s challenges at the position. Hopkins’ impact was further magnified with his knack for delivering in key moments, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
- Accolades:
- 4× Pro Bowl selection (2015, 2017-2019)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2017-2019)
- Led NFL in receiving touchdowns (2017)
- All-time franchise leader in receptions and receiving yards
4. Arian Foster
- Years Played for Houston Texans: 2009-2015
- Position: Running back
- Height/Weight: 6’1″, 227 lbs
Arian Foster emerged as a game-changing running back for the Houston Texans, making a significant impact during his tenure from 2009 to 2015. Known for his unique one-cut running style and exceptional vision on the field, Foster became the team’s all-time leading rusher.
His remarkable agility and breakaway speed allowed him to exploit defenses and deliver vital plays.
Foster’s patience and intelligence in reading blocks made him a standout in the Texans’ offensive lineup. Despite battling injuries, his passion and skill left an indelible mark on the franchise, setting a standard for future players.
- Accolades:
- 4× Pro Bowl (2010, 2011, 2012, 2014)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2010, 2011)
- NFL Rushing Yards Leader (2010)
- Houston Texans All-Time Leading Rusher
5. Brian Cushing
- Years played for team: 2009-2017
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 255 lbs
Brian Cushing, a cornerstone in the Texans’ defense, earned a reputation as one of the fiercest linebackers in the NFL during his time.
Starting his career with a bang, Cushing was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2009. Known for his aggressive play and relentless tackling ability, he was pivotal in solidifying the Texans’ defense.
His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in guiding the team through numerous successful seasons. Despite facing injuries, Cushing’s determination and resilience left an lasting mark on the franchise.
- Accolades:
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2009)
- 1-time Pro Bowl selection
- First-team All-Pro (2009)
- Franchise leader in total tackles for much of his career
6. Duane Brown
- Years Played for Houston Texans: 2008-2017
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 315 lbs
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Duane Brown was a cornerstone of the Houston Texans‘ offensive line for nearly a decade. Drafted in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, Brown quickly established himself as a dominant force at left tackle.
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Known for his exceptional athleticism, balance, and technique, he played a crucial role in protecting the quarterback’s blind side and was pivotal in the Texans’ zone blocking scheme. Brown’s presence helped propel the team to multiple playoff appearances and helped foster a more potent running game.
His leadership both on and off the field left a lasting impression on the franchise.
- Accolades:
- 4× Pro Bowl selection (2012, 2013, 2014, 2016)
- First Team All-Pro (2012)
- Second Team All-Pro (2011)
- Named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 2010s
7. Matt Schaub
- Years played for the Houston Texans: 2007-2013
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 235 lbs
Matt Schaub played a pivotal role as the quarterback for the Houston Texans, leading the team during a transformative period. Acquired via trade from the Atlanta Falcons, Schaub’s time with the Texans saw him setting numerous franchise records. He was known for his strong arm and accuracy, often keeping defenses off balance with his poise in the pocket.
In 2009, he led the league in passing yards, a demonstration of his offensive prowess. Schaub’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Texans to their first playoff appearances in 2011 and 2012, cementing his legacy as one of the team’s key figures.
- Accolades:
- Two-time Pro Bowl selection (2009, 2012)
- Led NFL in passing yards in 2009
- Set franchise records for most career passing yards and touchdowns
- Guided the Texans to their first playoff victory in team history
8. Whitney Mercilus
- Years Played for the Team: 2012-2021
- Position: Outside Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 258 lbs
Whitney Mercilus was a standout outside linebacker for the Houston Texans, known for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and knack for making game-changing plays.
Described as a tenacious pass rusher, Mercilus provided stability to the Texans’ defense for nearly a decade. He excelled in various defensive schemes, showcasing versatility and adaptability.
One of Mercilus’s key moments came in the 2016 playoffs when he recorded multiple sacks to help the Texans advance. His longevity and consistent performance made him a beloved figure in Houston, contributing considerably to the team’s defensive prowess.
- Accolades:
- Over 50 career sacks
- 2015 Second-team All-Pro
9. Mario Williams
- Years Played for Team: 2006-2011
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’6″ / 292 lbs
Selected as the first overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, Mario Williams became a cornerstone for the Houston Texans’ defense. Known for his explosive speed and power, Williams consistently disrupted opposing offenses, becoming a key factor in the Texans’ defensive strategies.
His ability to both sack the quarterback and defend against the run made him a formidable opponent. Williams’ standout moment came during the 2007 season when he recorded 14 sacks, earning him second place in the NFL.
His tenure with the Texans left a legacy of resilience and highlighted the potential of their defensive line.
- Accolades:
- 2× Pro Bowl selection (2008, 2009)
- First-team All-Pro (2007)
- Houston Texans all-time leader in sacks (53) by the end of his tenure
- Recorded 53.0 sacks over 82 games with the Texans
10. David Carr
- Years Played for Team: 2002-2006
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 212 lbs
David Carr was the first overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft and became the inaugural starting quarterback for the Houston Texans. While his tenure with the team was marked by challenges, including battling behind a notoriously porous offensive line, Carr showcased resilience and leadership.
Known for his strong arm and quick release, Carr set the foundation for the Texans’ fledgling franchise.
Despite the team’s struggles, he remained a steadfast figure, earning respect for handling the pressure of building a new franchise from the ground up. Carr’s time in Houston set the stage for future quarterbacks to thrive.
- Accolades:
- Led the NFL in completion percentage (68.3%) in 2006
- 75 total starts as Texans’ quarterback
- 13,391 passing yards and 59 touchdowns during his tenure
