Fansided

Each NFL team’s biggest breakout candidate

By Conor Dorney

Mandatory Credit: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images /
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HOUSTON, TX – DECEMBER 10: Houston Texans inside linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) in the second half of the the NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and Houston Texans on December 10, 2017 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Leslie Plaza Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – DECEMBER 10: Houston Texans inside linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) in the second half of the the NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and Houston Texans on December 10, 2017 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Leslie Plaza Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Houston Texans – Zach Cunningham

Former Vanderbilt standout Zach Cunningham was one of my favorite defensive players entering the 2017 NFL Draft and following a second-round selection and excellent rookie season, Cunningham appears ready to take a big leap forward in 2018.

Cunningham started 13 games at inside linebacker for the Texans in 2017, finishing the season with 90 total tackles, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble. His play got stronger as the year progressed and a better understanding of Houston’s defensive scheme could lead to even more production in his sophomore season.

The Texans’ coaching staff continue to glow about Cunningham’s improvement as a player in their system, according to this piece from the team’s official website.

"“He’s gotten better and better,” head coach Bill O’Brien said. “He’s physical. He can run. He’s good on special teams. He’s got a really good future in this league.”"

Having the faith of your head coach is always a good sign for players, particularly in their rookie season, and Cunningham figures to be a big part of the team’s plans going forward. Injuries to star players have plagued the defensive unit in recent years, but if the team’s pass rush can stay healthy, Cunningham could be in line to put up some big numbers in 2018.

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