NFL Draft primer: Texans can continue push into contention by addressing these key areas

2023 record: 10-7, won AFC South, lost in divisional round

Draft picks per round

2nd round: No. 42 (from Vikings)
2nd round: No. 59
3rd round, No. 86 (from Eagles)
4th round: No. 123 (from Browns)
4th round: No. 127
6th round: No. 188 (from Raiders)
6th round: No. 189 (from Bills)
7th round: No. 238 (from Saints)
7th round: No. 247

(Taylar Sievert/Yahoo Sports)

Top needs

Offensive line
Cornerback
Defensive tackle

The Texans addressed multiple needs via free agency, including dealing for wide receiver Stefon Diggs and upgrading their pass rush with the additions of Denico Autry and Danielle Hunter, who combined for 28 sacks last season. Alongside Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson Jr. (seven sacks), they should more than make up for the departure of 2023 sack leader Jonathan Greenard (12.5 sacks).

With edge rusher checked off, the Texans will look to improve at cornerback and on the offensive and defensive lines in the draft. Houston added former first-round cornerback Jeff Okudah from the Atlanta Falcons with starter Steven Nelson leaving in free agency. In a deep cornerback draft, the Texans should look to add another in the early rounds to fill out their top three alongside returning starter Derek Stingley Jr.

With Sheldon Rankins gone, the Texans need to shore up their run defense via defensive tackle. The departure of 2023 right tackle George Fant exacerbates the needs on the offensive line. Tytus Howard can play inside or out opposite Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Either way, there’s room to upgrade on the line to block for new addition Joe Mixon and protect C.J. Stroud.

Best first-round fits

Byron Murphy, DL, Texas
Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Best Day 2 fits

Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan
Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
Kris Jenkins, DL, Michigan
Ruke Orhorhoro, DL, Clemson
Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon
Christian Haynes, OG, UConn

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How they did last draft

The Texans did just…

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Author : Yahoo Sports

Publish date : 2024-04-11 17:43:35

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