Texans CB Derek Stingley Jr. named AFC Defensive Player of the Month

The Houston Texans racked up another personal accolade after cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. earned AFC Defensive Player of the Month honors for December and January, the NFL announced Thursday.

The second-year cornerback led the NFL with three interceptions from Weeks 13-18 and allowed just 11 receptions on 28 targets for 127 yards and one touchdown during that span. Stingley established himself as one of the best young corners in the NFL on the year with five total interceptions – tied for fourth among all defensive backs this season.

STINGIN’ ALL MONTH LONG pic.twitter.com/9FGzw5jvsw

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) January 11, 2024

Stingley will have his work cut out for him in the wildcard round against veteran quarterback Joe Flacco and wide receiver Amari Cooper. The duo linked up for 11 completions, 265 yards and two touchdowns the last time they faced the Texans in Week 16. Stingley notched one of his interceptions in that match, but also let up a touchdown.

Stingley was the Texans’ No. 3 overall pick in 2022.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud also won an AFC accolade when he took home his third Rookie of the Week award.