Ranking the Texans’ draft needs post free agency
The Houston Texans have filled out their roster with what general manager Nick Caserio considered “singles and doubles” in free agency. Now that the signing period has died down, the Texans can focus on the draft.
Houston’s problems with the draft are manifold. Firstly, they don’t have but one pick in the top-100 at No. 67 overall in Round 3. Additionally, there was a reason they went 4-12 and why they have a new coach and new general manager; they’re awful and in need of a rebuild. The Texans probably don’t have a position they can afford to avoid, except possibly tackle, tight end, and running back.
Here is a ranking of the Texans’ draft needs after free agency as identified by Mark Schofield of the Touchdown Wire. It comes with a caveat. If the Texans can pull off a blockbuster trade involving Deshaun Watson, and they are still picking for the first time in the third round, quarterback is not a big need. It would be best to wait until 2022 to fix it and ride out the team’s 20th season of existence with Tyrod Taylor and Ryan Finely.
1. Defensive line
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The Texans don't have a war daddy edge rusher. They may have a couple players in Shaq Lawson and even Jacob Martin who could have a decent season and approach double-digit sacks, but their staying power isn't there. As Lawson and company begin to decline, Houston will need someone who can take the reins and dominate along the defensive trenches.
2. Cornerback
(AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Cornerback looks deep with Bradley Roby, Vernon Hargreaves, Desmond King, Terrance Mitchell, Tavierre Thomas, and Tremon Smith. Don't forget about Keion Crossen and John Reid either. However, the Texans don't have a dominant player in the mix who can lock down their side, and if they do, that player has availability issues.
3. Receiver
(AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Houston's cornerback group of Brandin Cooks, Randall Cobb, Chris Conley, Keke Coutee, and Andre Roberts would be good enough if they had Watson under center. However, if the Texans can find a receiver who can grow into the No. 1 role by the time they do find a Watson successor, they need to take a close look in the draft.
4. Interior offensive line
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The Texans cut center Nick Martin along with guards Zach Fulton and Senio Kelemete. Houston signed Justin Britt, Cole Toner, but they don't have anyone proven and reliable on the inside. What could bolster the interior is if Patriots tackle Marcus Cannon works at right tackle for Houston. Then, they could kick Tytus Howard inside and just have one of the other guard spots and center to figure out.
5. Quarterback
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With draft picks at a premium for Houston, they would be better off to not waste any time on the position. However, if one of the better prospects starts falling into the third round, and the Texans can afford to let the youngster sit and not wreck his confidence playing for a rebuilding mess, then quarterback may be a valid option.
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