HOU Azeez Al-Shaair
NFL linebacker. Position: LB. Team: Houston Texans.
Quick Facts
- Position: Linebacker
- Team: Houston Texans
- 2025 accomplishment: First Pro Bowl nod
2026 Outlook
Al-Shaair is the defensive linchpin for the Texans' elite defense. When he's on the field, the Texans are the league's best defensive unit. Over the past two seasons, with Al-Shaair on field (1,406 plays), the Texans ranked 1st in EPA/Play Allowed (-0.13), 1st in EPA/Pass Allowed (-0.10), 1st in Yards/Play (4.8), and T-6th in Yards Before Contact on runs (1.23). Without him (573 plays), they drop to 13th in EPA/Play (-0.02), 20th in EPA/Pass (0.09), and 11th in Yards/Play (5.4). His ability to be a two-way defender, erase the middle of the field, blitz effectively, and cover running backs is critical for a defense designed to constantly attack and swarm offenses. Even with other elite starters returning, Al-Shaair is the "glue" player who holds together the Texans' defensive structure. (per x-factor-nfl-players-who-can-swing-the-season-for-super-bowl-contenders)
Role / Depth Chart
Starting linebacker, middle of the Texans' defense. Two-way player who blitzes, covers, and diagnoses run plays.
Injury Status
Healthy entering 2026 training camp. No reported injuries.
Recent News
- 2026-07-03 — Named Texans' X-factor for Super Bowl chances (x-factor-nfl-players-who-can-swing-the-season-for-super-bowl-contenders)