Texans counting on Desmond King as veteran nickel
By Aaron WilsonSep 4, 2021
The way that Texans cornerback Desmond King sees the game is simplistic: Find the football, and take it away from the offense.
The veteran nickel and former All-Pro defensive back and returner uses his instincts to carry out what defensive coordinator Lovie Smith wants: create lots of turnovers.
“Absolutely, coach Lovie, he's a turnover mindset guy, takeaway mindset guy,” King said. “His defense is built on having eyes on the quarterback, having those zone instincts. So, what we want to do is be able to play fast out there on the field and get the ball.
“Just the takeaways. He wants his players to go out there and be comfortable playing. That's what we're doing. He wants us to play fast, play smart, and play physical. That's how we're going to play.”
King has built a reputation for his opportunistic style.
King anticipates throws adeptly, jumping into passing lanes for interceptions.
In 2018 with the Los Angeles Chargers, King had a career-high three interceptions.
King is also an explosive returner who had a 43-yard punt return and a 29-yard kickoff return during the preseason in relief of Pro Bowl return specialist Andre Roberts.
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