Wolf
100% Texan
This is NOT my thoughts it was a link Barwin(if it is Barwin) provided on his facebook with a response "Are you Kidding Me?"
http://www.ibtimes.com/sportsnet/ho...hould-texans-also-bench-connor-barwin-whitney
http://www.ibtimes.com/sportsnet/ho...hould-texans-also-bench-connor-barwin-whitney
Most of the time when a franchise drafts a player in the first round they are either drafted for need in that position or as the best available player. Most teams' first-round picks are either starting or being rotated in for a significant amount of snaps.
The Texans have become more balanced and have proven to have solid depth in talent by drafting under the strategy of the "best player available." Their latest first-round pick, Whitney Mercilus, a defensive end from Illinois is an outside linebacker in Wade Philips 3-4 scheme, in the same vein as Mario Williams's role in the defense.
However, Mercilus is currently second on the depth chart to Connor Barwin who remains sackless for the season and is in a contract year. The thought process is that Barwin will be given all the snaps of opportunity to earn himself a extension, therefore most fans do not know too much about their first round pick Mercilus other than seeing him contribute on special teams and leading the team in the preseason with three and a half sacks.