Texans Pro Bowl Defensive End Will Anderson Jr. Is Building a Legacy With His Personal Adage

7 min read
Dec 21, 2024, 11:44 AM
Will Anderson Jr. #51 of the Houston Texans

Will Anderson Jr. #51 of the Houston Texans (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

HOUSTON, Tx. - When it comes to relentlessly chasing down quarterbacks, Houston Texans Pro Bowl defensive end Will Anderson Jr. does it all by executing his ultra-detailed pass rushing plan.

And the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year applies his personal adage to everything he does on the football field.

It's not about just getting into the quarterback's face. It's about getting him on the ground fast consistently.

"Finish, finish, finish," Anderson exclusively told RG. "That's the biggest thing we always talk about. Last season, I didn't finish. The whole offseason and fall camp, I told my coaches that's what I really wanted to focus on is how can I finish better. And we did that."

The way that Anderson penetrates opponents' backfields, he makes the most difficult challenges look routine. His speed, strength, toughness, and moves are a rare combination.

He already has recorded 10 1/2 sacks this season, topping his rookie mark of seven sacks, despite missing a few games with an ankle injury suffered against the New York Jets.

Anderson had a pivotal forced fumble on a strip sack of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa that led directly to a touchdown after the loose football was recovered by teammate Tim Settle Jr.

In a dozen games played this season for the AFC South champion Texans, Anderson has recorded 32 tackles, 14 tackles for losses and 15 quarterback hits. With three games remaining in the regular season, Anderson has 17 1/2 career sacks, 77 tackles, 24 tackles for losses and 37 quarterback hits.

"As a rusher, one thing you love is getting sacks, but it's so much more than just getting in sacks, you know, affecting the quarterback can come in various ways," Anderson said. "We are talking about just pushing the pocket. We want to penetrate."

Beyond the statistics and the hardware, Anderson has earned a lot of respect from his teammates and opponents.

The former Alabama standout plays the game with an aggressive style and a growing repertoire of pass rushing moves.

Whether it's his speed rush, bull rush, chop swim move and spin move, Anderson has found success in the NFL quickly as a former third overall pick.

"I want to build a legacy," Anderson said. "It's about doing things the right way."

Anderson frequently receives encouraging and congratulatory text messages from retired Texans star defensive end J.J. Watt.

"He always texts me every time something good happens," Anderson said. "He’s been a great role model for me. He’s been a great guy to have in my corner. Man, it’s just an honor to be up there with him,” I look up to J.J. He’s been a great role model in my life. He’s been helping me, keeping me encouraged."

Off the field, Anderson and his family are deeply committed to philanthropy. That includes volunteering at the Houston Food Bank to help families in need. On the field, Anderson has been nominated for the NFL's prestigious, annual Art Rooney Sportsmanship award.

“I pride myself on doing what’s right and playing between the lines the right way and not doing all the extra stuff and just being a really solid player when it comes to integrity and things like that,” Anderson said. “And it’s a blessing, man. I really just I can’t speak enough about myself is just the people that’s instilled everything to me how to play the game.”

Against the New England Patriots this season, Anderson was an absolute menace, a problem that couldn't be solved by blocking schemes and strategies.

He had a career-high three sacks and four tackles for losses against Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye, batting away another throw that was intercepted. He's only the 12th player in NFL history to record a statistical line of three sacks, four tackles for losses and one pass defensed.  

"I know the stats are great, but, with him, you don't even see some of the stuff," Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke said. “The sacks are amazing, but does a lot of other things in the structure of the defense to really help out. He's fun to be around, for sure."

Playing opposite Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter, Anderson and Hunter have combined for 22 1/2 sacks. They also lead the NFL with a combined 136 pressures, per Next Gen Stats' GPS-generated analytics.

A four-time Pro Bowl selection, Hunter has been mentoring Anderson. Growing up in a Georgia household with three sisters, Anderson looks up to Hunter as a big brother type. They've become good friends during their first season collaborating after the Texans signed Hunter to a two-year, $51 million free agent deal during the offseason.

“Man, he’s taught me so much,” Anderson said.

 “Every time I see him, I give him a big hug. I don’t have any brothers, so all of these guys have been in this group. I look at them as my big brothers. He just kept me composed and kept me grounded. I keep getting better. He kept me on edge: ‘Hey, don’t get lax. When you get lax, your body starts to wind down a little bit. Keep going, keep going.’ And he’s helping me out a lot.”

The success of Anderson has been felt on both sides of the football. He sets a sterling example for all of his teammates.

“Man, I’m super proud of Will, just the person he is, not only just on the field, but off,” quarterback. C.J. Stroud said. “I know he has a lot more coming for him and I definitely know that he’ll continue to be great.”

In terms of personal growth, Anderson just keeps building his game one step at a time.

"Yeah, man, it's it's been fun," Anderson said. "I think last year, it was kind of the same thing last year. I was able to take it to the next step and be able to grow within the defense and get some time off for training this offseason. Actually learn my body and learn things that I can do with how to get better at things."

The Texans have already clinched an automatic playoff berth.

One year after losing in the AFC divisional round to the Baltimore Ravens, the Texans feel better equipped to make a run. And Anderson, a team captain, leads the charge.

"We've got more work to do," Anderson said. "I'm happy to go to war with these guys every time we touch the field. I'm just grateful."

Aaron WIlson
Aaron WIlson
NFL Reporter

Aaron Wilson is an award-winning Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and www.click2houston.com. He has covered the NFL since 1997, including previous stints for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. This marks his 10th year covering the Texans after previously covering a Super Bowl winning team in Baltimore. He has also covered the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans. A Washington, D.C. native, Wilson played college football at East Carolina University where he was a linebacker. Aaron and his wife live in Houston and enjoy traveling and trying new restaurants.

Interests:
NFL

More RG Exclusive Interviews

03/27/2025
“Saquon Changed the Conversation About Running Backs” – Barry Sanders on Barkley’s Impact, Mount Rushmore of RBs
Detroit Lions great Barry Sanders details how the Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley has brought value back to running backs and names his Mount Rushmore for the position
“Saquon Changed the Conversation About Running Backs” – Barry Sanders on Barkley’s Impact, Mount Rushmore of RBs
03/26/2025
“They Both Want to Win”: Patrick Surtain II Praises Bo Nix-Sean Payton Duo Driving Broncos’ Resurgence
Patrick Surtain II highlights how Bo Nix and Sean Payton’s shared mindset sparked a playoff return for the Broncos
“They Both Want to Win”: Patrick Surtain II Praises Bo Nix-Sean Payton Duo Driving Broncos’ Resurgence
03/19/2025
Braden Fiske on Los Angeles Rams' Decision to Move On From Cooper Kupp: "Obviously, It Was Tough”
Braden Fiske opens up on the Los Angeles Rams' decision to move on from Cooper Kupp and his thoughts on the addition of Davante Adams
Braden Fiske on Los Angeles Rams' Decision to Move On From Cooper Kupp:  "Obviously, It Was Tough”
03/17/2025
“We’re Heading in the Right Direction”: Patrick Surtain II Believes the Broncos Are Super Bowl Contenders in 2025
Patrick Surtain II details why the Denver Broncos can develop into a Super Bowl contender and the biggest thing he's learned from head coach Sean Payton
“We’re Heading in the Right Direction”: Patrick Surtain II Believes the Broncos Are Super Bowl Contenders in 2025
03/04/2025
CeeDee Lamb on Cowboys Potentially Adding Receiver Through NFL Draft: “Just Looking For a Great Compliment”
Dallas Cowboys' CeeDee Lamb gives his thoughts on the 2025 NFL Draft and the wide receiver prospects who stand out most to him
CeeDee Lamb on Cowboys Potentially Adding Receiver Through NFL Draft: “Just Looking For a Great Compliment”
03/02/2025
“I Knew I Wanted to Be a Quarterback”: Justin Arth’s Unconventional Path
Justin Arth's journey from YouTube-trained QB to pro football is a testament to perseverance in a game where nothing is guaranteed
“I Knew I Wanted to Be a Quarterback”: Justin Arth’s Unconventional Path
02/27/2025
“Go About It and Attack It”: Jim Harbaugh on Chargers' Approach to 2025 NFL Draft, Connections to Michigan
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh on his approach to the NFL Combine and NFL Draft, whether or not he leans towards Michigan Wolverines alumni and his thoughts on the College Football Playoff system
“Go About It and Attack It”: Jim Harbaugh on Chargers' Approach to 2025 NFL Draft, Connections to Michigan
02/24/2025
Peyton Manning Says Denver Broncos Will be 'Even Better' Next Year
Peyton Manning makes a bold prediction about the Denver Broncos and gives his thoughts on what they need to get to the next level
Peyton Manning Says Denver Broncos Will be 'Even Better' Next Year
02/18/2025
“We Left That Place Better Than We Found It”: RJ Oben on Notre Dame’s Legacy
RJ Oben’s versatility and relentless work ethic make him a top NFL Draft prospect. Will he be Notre Dame’s next big defensive star in the NFL?
“We Left That Place Better Than We Found It”: RJ Oben on Notre Dame’s Legacy
02/17/2025
“I Bring Leadership”: Taylor Elgersma talks 2025 NFL Draft Preparation, Senior Bowl Experience
Taylor Elgersma made history at the Senior Bowl as the first Canadian quarterback to ever participate in the event, and now he’s looking to make an impression in the 2025 NFL Draft
“I Bring Leadership”: Taylor Elgersma talks 2025 NFL Draft Preparation, Senior Bowl Experience

NFL Writers

DJ Siddiqi
DJ Siddiqi
Sports Reporter

DJ Siddiqi is a sports reporter who focuses on football, basketball and pro wrestling. He has covered some of the biggest sporting events, including the NBA Finals and Wrestlemania and often interviews high-profile athletes on a weekly basis. Siddiqi has interviewed the likes of Dan Marino, Emmitt Smith, Shaquille O'Neal, Tony Hawk and Giannis Antetokounmpo. His previous experience includes working as a lead NBA writer at CBS Sports and 247 Sports in addition to working as a beat reporter covering the NFL and the Denver Broncos at Bleacher Report. Follow Siddiqi for exclusive one-on-one interviews and analysis on key topics in sports

Meet All Our Experts