NEWSLETTER
To say the Houston Texans crushed the 2023 NFL Draft would be an understatement. Both first-round selections Will Anderson and C.J. Stroud are already stars. They both not only made the Pro Bowl but won defensive and offensive rookies of the year respectively. Houston has been extremely aggressive this offseason, bringing in tons of veteran talent. But now it’s time to focus on the NFL Draft where key depth pieces can be added. So let’s take a look at where their priorities lie.
Houston Texans Positions to Address in the NFL Draft
The Houston Texans were quite possibly the biggest surprise of the 2023 NFL season, winning their division and making it to the NFL Divisional Round in the playoffs. A lot of that success was had on the shoulders of their incredible 2023 NFL Draft which saw them secure their franchise quarterback, a dynamic wide receiver, and a superstar pass rusher.
They’re now looking to compete for an AFC Championship and have begun that process by loading up on talent in free agency. The upcoming NFL Draft will focus primarily on depth players and bolstering an oft-injured offensive line to protect C.J. Stroud.
Offensive Line Depth
Protecting your quarterback is the most important goal of every offense in the NFL and offensive line depth plays a major role in accomplishing this. Houston sustained their fair share of injuries, and lost two key contributors to their offensive live from 2023. If Houston has any hopes of competing for Conference championships and possibly even a Super Bowl, C.J. Stroud’s health, as well as, clean packets are paramount.
Defensive Tackle
Houston has loaded up on pass rushers and defensive ends this offseason by bringing back Derek Barnett and signing Denico Autry and Danielle Hunter. They however lost both starting defensive tackles in free agency and only added Tim Settle at the position to fill their spots. Shoring up the defensive middle starts on the line, and I expect Houston to target defensive tackle early.
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Interior Linebacker
Continuing with the goal of strengthening the middle of their defense, Houston should also look to add depth at linebacker. Veterans Blake Cashman and Denzel Perryman, who combined for 182 tackles and started 13 and 11 games respectively are gone. Houston signed Azeez Al-Shaair to help fill the void left by their departures but the Texans would be wise to add more depth behind him.
Running Back
As part of their aggressive offseason plan, the Texans traded for running back Joe Mixon to replace Devin Singletary as the team’s lead back. Mixon is coming off a 1,000-yard season but also entering his 8th year in the NFL. Behind him is just Dameon Pierce and a couple of special teams contributors. They need to find their 3rd-down back and someone who could help shoulder the load in the event Mixon gets injured.
Houston Texans Offseason Additions
The Houston Texans have made big splashes this offseason and have built what looks like a fantasy football roster. See their most impactful offseason additions below.
Houston Texans 2024 NFL Draft Picks
The Houston Texans do not have a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and their first selection doesn’t come until pick 42. They currently have nine overall selections with five coming between rounds 2 and 4. Check out all their picks below.
