Career History of Whitney Mercilus
Personal Information
- **Date of Birth:** July 21, 1990
- **Position:** Defensive Lineman (DL)
- **College:** University of Illinois
Professional Career
Whitney Mercilus was drafted in the 2012 NFL Draft and has played for three different teams throughout his career:
- Houston Texans (HST): 2012 - 2020
- Chicago Bears (HOU): 2021
- Green Bay Packers (GB): 2021
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
- **NFL Draft:** Selected by the Houston Texans in the 1st round (26th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft.
- **Sacks Leader:** In 2015, Mercilus recorded a career-high 12 sacks, showcasing his ability as a pass rusher.
- **Defensive Standout:** Known for his agility and strength, Mercilus consistently contributed to the Texans' defensive unit, becoming a key player during his tenure.
- **Playoff Appearances:** He participated in multiple playoff games with the Texans, including their run in the 2016 season when they reached the Divisional Round.
- **Versatile Player:** Throughout his career, Mercilus has been praised for his versatility, successfully playing both as a linebacker and defensive end in various defensive schemes.
Notable Skills
- Strong pass-rushing ability, particularly in one-on-one situations.
- Effective in both stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback.
- Leadership qualities both on and off the field, mentoring younger players.
Whitney Mercilus has made a significant impact in the NFL, particularly during his time with the Texans, and continues to be recognized for his contributions to the teams he has played for.