After Houston defeated Pittsburgh in the NFL playoffs Monday night (Jan. 12), Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. used an on-field interview to glorify and thank God. When ESPN’s Laura Rutledge asked Anderson about his strip-sack, which led to one of his team’s two defensive touchdowns, the third-year standout began by praising God.
“First, I got to give all glory to God,” said Anderson, 24. “Thank you, Jesus Christ. We have a Scripture saying, ‘Let our light shine before you, God, that when people see us play, they glorify your name.’ So just a shoutout to Jesus Christ.”
Despite five fumbles by Houston QB C.J. Stroud Monday, the Texans’ elite defense carried the fifth-seeded AFC team to a 30-6 victory. In addition to Anderson’s forced fumble, he recorded three tackles, three hits on Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers, and half a sack.
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Houston now advances to the divisional round and will play the two-seed Patriots in New England on Jan. 18.
Houston’s Will Anderson Jr. Wants To ‘Be a Blessing’
Will Anderson Jr., the 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, has been outspoken about his Christian faith since his college days at Alabama. While there, he and QB Bryce Young helped the Crimson Tide win the national championship in January 2021.
Anderson, who finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting that season, was the third overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. During his three seasons with the Texans, the defensive end has gained a reputation for on-field toughness and off-field service.
At training camp in 2024, Anderson talked about growing closer to Jesus and submitting to God’s plans. “My focus is just less on what everybody has to say and more on God,” he told reporters. “My approval comes from [God]. Ultimately, everything that I achieve in this lifetime, I’m putting him first for it, because he’s the reason why I’m here.”
Anderson continued, “This year I’m like, ‘God, whether it’s a good game or bad game—anything—you’re gonna get the praise and glory for it. I’m gonna let you use me however you want to use me each game.’” The defensive end, whose college nickname was “The Terminator,” added, “I just want to be a servant, be a leader, and be a blessing to my teammates and help them out in any type of way.”
Anderson has credited Houston’s staff, including head coach DeMeco Ryans, with helping him stay grounded and focused on faith. After his rookie season, Anderson said, “It’s so crazy the way God works and the way that God will bring people into your life to help you grow closer to him.” He added, “The only person I gotta please is God. That’s the only person I need approval from.”
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After Houston defeated Pittsburgh in the NFL playoffs Monday night (Jan. 12), Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. used an on-field interview to glorify and thank God.Click to Post
