Texans' JJ Watt named AFC defensive player of the month

HOUSTON – Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt was named the American Football Conference’s defensive player of the month Thursday.

This is the sixth player of the month award in Watt’s career, which ties him for the most such awards for any defensive player in NFL history. He is also one of nine Houston Texans players to win the award.

Watt has made 20 tackles and five sacks during his four games since September. He’s also tied for first in the NFL for forced fumbles, tied for second in sacks, tied for fifth in quarterback hits and tied for fourth in tackles for loss. He’s the leader in sacks and forced fumbles in the AFC.

Over his 92 career games, Watt has made 80 sacks.

The Texans are preparing to face their rival the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Coverage of the game starts at 5 p.m. on KPRC2.