Houston Texans' Blake Cashman Named AFC Defensive Player of the Week

A career day against the Saints has led to Houston Texans veteran linebacker Blake Cashman receiving league-wide recognition.

HOUSTON — Houston Texans' Blake Cashman is entering the bye week with league-wide recognition. The NFL announced Wednesday morning that Cashman has been named AFC Defensive Player of the Week.

The veteran linebacker played an essential role in the Texans' Week 6 20-13 home victory over the New Orleans Saints Sunday afternoon. 

During the win, Cashman recorded a career-high with 15 tackles, two pass deflections, two tackles for loss and one quarterback hit. 

Cashman became the first Texan player to receive the honor since defensive back Tavierre Thomas in 2021. He also became the 19th player to win the award in franchise history.

Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is unable to make a reception in the end zone as Houston Texans linebacker Blake Cashman / Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

J.J. Watt, the latest member of the Texans' Ring of Honor, has the record for most Defensive Player of the Week awards with seven.

"What I’ve seen from Blake is the more he’s got in, the more opportunities he’s gotten – he continues to show up and make plays," coach DeMeco Ryans said. "He was always productive on the ball and it showed in training camp, so it’s no surprise that he gets into the game and has PBU [pass break ups], big-time plays and continues to show up. 

"Blake has done a great job with what he’s been given. The opportunities that he’s been given he has shown up and he’s made big-time plays for us, and he’s earned the right to get more time."

In five appearances with four starts this season, Cashman has recorded 31 tackles, including four for loss, four pass deflections and one interception.