Texans’ football is in need of a rebuild. The Texans have only won four games in the past two seasons and have a lot of holes on their roster. The 2023 NFL Draft will be an important one for the Texans, as they will have an opportunity to add some talented players to their team.
There are a lot of talented players available in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Texans have the No. 2 overall pick in the draft, and they are expected to select a quarterback. There are several talented quarterbacks available in this year’s draft, including Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson. The Texans could also trade down in the draft and select another player, such as a defensive lineman or a wide receiver.
The Texans have a lot of needs to fill. The Texans need to upgrade their defense, which has been one of the worst in the NFL in recent years. They also need to add some playmakers to their offense. The Texans could use a wide receiver to pair with Brandin Cooks, and they could also use a running back to replace Dameon Pierce. The Texans have a lot of work to do, but the 2023 NFL Draft will be a good opportunity for them to start rebuilding their team.
With the NFL Draft just around the corner, it’s time to take a look at who the Texans could select with the No. 2 overall pick. There are a few players who stand out as potential targets for the Texans, including Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson. Young is a dynamic playmaker who can make all the throws. Stroud is a polished passer with a strong arm. Richardson is a physical specimen with a lot of upside.
The Texans could also trade down in the draft and select another player. There are a few players who could be available for the Texans if they trade down, including Jalen Carter, Will Levis, and Peter Skoronoski. Carter is a dominant defensive lineman who could help the Texans improve their pass rush. Levis is a pro-style quarterback with a lot of potential. Skoronoski is a talented offensive tackle who could help protect the Texans’ quarterback.
Revitalizing the Defensive Front
The Texans’ defensive front has been a major weakness in recent years, ranking among the bottom of the league in sacks and tackles for loss. In order to improve their defense, the Texans must focus on adding talent to their front seven. This can be done through the draft, free agency, or a combination of both. In this article, we will take a look at some of the potential targets for the Texans in the 2025 NFL Draft.
One of the Texans’ biggest needs on the defensive front is a pass rusher. They have not had a consistent pass rusher since J.J. Watt was in his prime. In the 2025 NFL Draft, there are a number of talented pass rushers who could be available for the Texans. Some of the potential targets include:
| Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|
| Nolan Smith | DE | Georgia |
| Shemar Stewart | DE | Texas |
| Will Anderson | LB | Alabama |
| Derick Hall | LB | Auburn |
Taming the Secondary
Overhauling the Cornerback Position
Addressing the Texans’ lackluster cornerback room should be a top priority. Kyion Grayes, a three-star recruit from Carthage, stands as a promising option at 6’3″ with impressive speed and athleticism. His physical tools could translate to exceptional coverage skills, particularly against taller receivers.
Grayes possesses a keen ability to read quarterbacks’ tendencies and jump routes, making him a disruptive presence in the secondary. His long arms and quick reactions allow him to close on receivers quickly, limiting their separation and opportunities for big plays.
Adding Depth and Versatility
Beyond Grayes, the Texans should seek additional depth and versatility at cornerback. Three-star prospect Jaren Kanak from Klein Cain High School has drawn attention with his impressive size and range. At 6’2″, Kanak has the physicality to match up against bigger receivers and the speed to keep pace with shifty slot receivers.
Kanak’s tackling ability is another asset. He consistently wraps up well and delivers solid hits, reducing the chances of broken tackles and after-the-catch yards. His experience playing both man and zone coverage makes him adaptable to different defensive schemes.
| Prospect | Position | Ht/Wt | Stars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyion Grayes | CB | 6’3″ / 180 lbs | 3 |
| Jaren Kanak | CB | 6’2″ / 195 lbs | 3 |
By adding Grayes and Kanak to the mix, the Texans can bolster their cornerback depth and create a more formidable secondary. Both prospects bring unique strengths that complement each other, providing the team with improved coverage and versatility to handle various offensive formations.
Unleashing an Offensive Playmaker
Round 1, Pick 12: Marvin Jones Jr., WR, Georgia
With their first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans address a glaring need at wide receiver by selecting Marvin Jones Jr. from Georgia. Jones possesses exceptional speed, athleticism, and ball-winning skills, making him a potential game-changer for the Texans’ offense. His ability to stretch the field vertically and create separation with ease will provide quarterback Davis Mills with a much-needed downfield threat.
Round 2, Pick 38: Jaren Kanak, TE, Ohio State
Continuing to bolster their offensive firepower, the Texans target Ohio State tight end Jaren Kanak in the second round. Kanak is a highly versatile pass-catcher who can line up at multiple positions and create mismatches for opposing defenses. His size, athleticism, and sure hands make him a reliable target for Mills, and his presence on the field will open up the passing game by creating space for other receivers.
Round 3, Pick 72: Emery Jones, RB, LSU
With their third-round selection, the Texans seek to add a dynamic playmaker to their backfield by drafting running back Emery Jones from LSU. Jones is a shifty, elusive runner with exceptional speed and acceleration. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field and create yards after contact will make him a valuable asset to the Texans’ offense. Jones will complement starter Dameon Pierce, forming a formidable tandem that can keep opposing defenses on their heels.
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Marvin Jones Jr. | WR | Georgia |
| Jaren Kanak | TE | Ohio State |
| Emery Jones | RB | LSU |
Bolstering the O-Line for Stability
The Texans’ offensive line has been a weak link in recent seasons, and it’s a priority to address this issue in the upcoming draft. With the team holding the number one overall pick, they have the opportunity to select the best player available at any position, and there are several talented offensive linemen who could be available. One potential target is Peter Skoronoski, a 6’4″, 315-pound offensive tackle from Northwestern. Skoronoski is a powerful blocker with excellent technique and footwork, and he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl-caliber player.
Investing in Depth and Versatility
In addition to adding a starting-caliber lineman, the Texans should also focus on building depth and versatility along the offensive line. This means selecting players who can play multiple positions and who have the athleticism to handle different blocking schemes. Some potential targets for this role include:
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Tyrique Stevenson | Guard/Tackle | Georgia |
| Olusegun Oluwatimi | Center | Michigan |
| Devonte Brown | Guard | Ohio State |
These players are all highly regarded prospects who have the potential to become valuable contributors to the Texans’ offensive line. By investing in both starting talent and depth, the Texans can build a unit that will be able to protect their quarterback and create running lanes for their running backs.
Adding Depth to the Linebacking Corps
The Texans’ linebacking corps is a position group that could use some additional depth. With Christian Harris and Jalen Pitre set to become free agents in 2025, the team will need to find some young players who can step up and contribute. Fortunately, there are several talented linebackers available in the 2025 NFL Draft who could fill that need.
Potential Targets
Here are a few potential targets for the Texans in the 2025 NFL Draft:
- Noah Sewell, Oregon
- Shemar Stewart, Texas
- TreVonte Citizen, Miami (FL)
- David Bailey, Stanford
- CJ Hicks, Ohio State
CJ Hicks Breakdown
One of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft is CJ Hicks from Ohio State. Hicks is a 6’3″, 235-pound linebacker who has all the tools to be a star at the next level. He is a fast and physical tackler who can also cover ground in pass coverage. In his sophomore season in 2023, Hicks recorded 70 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and 2 interceptions.
Hicks has the potential to be a three-down linebacker in the NFL. He can play sideline-to-sideline and has the instincts to make plays all over the field. He is also a willing tackler who is not afraid to mix it up in the box. If the Texans are looking for a young linebacker who can make an immediate impact, Hicks should be at the top of their list.
| Player | Position | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| CJ Hicks | Linebacker | 6’3″ | 235 lbs |
Securing a Future Quarterback
The Texans’ search for a franchise quarterback has been ongoing for years, and the 2025 NFL Draft may provide the answer. With a number of highly-touted signal-callers available, the Texans have a prime opportunity to secure their quarterback of the future.
Top Quarterback Prospects
Cade Klubnik (Clemson): A former five-star recruit and the current starter for the Clemson Tigers, Klubnik has shown exceptional arm talent and mobility. His ability to make plays outside the structure of the offense makes him a dangerous threat.
Dante Moore (UCLA): Another former five-star recruit, Moore has impressed with his accuracy, pocket presence, and leadership abilities. He has a strong command of UCLA’s offense and has shown the ability to make quick decisions.
Arch Manning (Texas): The grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has immense hype surrounding him. He is a skilled passer with good arm strength and decision-making. His high football IQ and leadership potential make him an intriguing prospect.
Selection Strategy
The Texans currently hold the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While it is possible that one of the top quarterbacks could fall to them at that spot, it is more likely that they will need to trade up to select their preferred prospect.
| Team | Draft Pick | Potential Trade |
|---|---|---|
| Houston Texans | No. 6 | Move up to No. 2 or No. 3 |
| Seattle Seahawks | No. 2 | Acquire multiple first-round picks |
| Detroit Lions | No. 3 | Acquire a combination of first-round picks and players |
The Texans have several valuable assets that they could use to make a trade, including first-round picks in 2024 and 2026. They could also package some of their young players, such as wide receiver Nico Collins or defensive end Jonathan Greenard, to sweeten the deal.
Targeting a Versatile Safety
With the Texans rebuilding their defense, finding a versatile safety who can play multiple roles is a priority. Several intriguing prospects could fit the bill in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Top Safety Prospects
| Prospect | College |
|---|---|
| Jamison Graham | Clemson |
| Ethan Rice | North Carolina |
| Domani Jackson | USC |
These safeties possess the athleticism, coverage skills, and versatility to excel in the Texans’ defense.
Jamison Graham
Graham is an elite athlete with exceptional range and ball skills. He can play both free safety and strong safety, providing flexibility in the secondary.
Ethan Rice
Rice is a physical presence in the box, delivering punishing hits. He also has good instincts in coverage, making him a versatile option for the Texans.
Domani Jackson
Jackson is a former five-star recruit who has shown flashes of brilliance. He has the size and athleticism to cover tight ends and play deep in the field.
Drafting a Dynamic Edge Rusher
The Texans’ defense has struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in recent seasons. Addressing this weakness is crucial, and the 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity to add a dynamic edge rusher who can transform the unit. The following prospects stand out as potential targets for the Texans:
Devon Witherspoon, Edge, Illinois
Witherspoon is a highly athletic and explosive pass rusher who excels at bending the edge and creating havoc in the backfield. His quick first step and agility allow him to consistently beat tackles off the line of scrimmage and disrupt passing lanes.
Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas
Stewart is an ascending star with tremendous physical tools. He has an impressive wingspan and length, which he uses to his advantage when engaged with offensive linemen. His strength and relentless motor enable him to push through blocks and create pressure throughout the game.
Joshua Josephs, Edge, Ole Miss
Josephs is an exceptional athlete who combines speed, power, and instincts. He displays remarkable burst off the snap and can quickly accelerate past defenders to the quarterback. His lateral agility and ability to change direction seamlessly make him difficult to contain.
Nolan Smith, Edge, Georgia
Smith is a versatile edge rusher who can excel in both pass and run defense. His exceptional athleticism and natural instincts enable him to quickly diagnose plays and react accordingly. He possesses excellent technique and can generate pressure from various angles.
David Bailey, Edge, Stanford
Bailey is a highly intelligent and disciplined pass rusher who relies on his technique and football IQ to outsmart opponents. He has a strong understanding of leverage and uses it effectively to create separation from blockers. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback makes him a constant threat.
Harold Perkins, Edge, LSU
Perkins is a dynamic and explosive edge rusher with a knack for making big plays. He possesses exceptional speed and acceleration, which he uses to his advantage when attacking the pocket. His agility and quickness allow him to evade blockers and consistently reach the quarterback.
Oscar Delp, Edge, Georgia
Delp is an intriguing prospect with a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He has a massive frame and long arms, which he uses to overpower opposing tackles. His surprising mobility and lateral agility make him difficult to control in the trenches.
Trevor Etienne, Edge, Florida
Etienne is a promising young edge rusher with tremendous potential. He possesses a good burst off the snap and uses his instincts and awareness to find favorable matchups. His quick hands and ability to shed blockers make him a consistent threat to opposing quarterbacks.
| Prospect | College | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devon Witherspoon | Illinois | 6’3″ | 250 lbs |
| Shemar Stewart | Texas | 6’4″ | 260 lbs |
| Joshua Josephs | Ole Miss | 6’5″ | 245 lbs |
| Nolan Smith | Georgia | 6’3″ | 250 lbs |
| David Bailey | Stanford | 6’4″ | 260 lbs |
| Harold Perkins | LSU | 6’2″ | 240 lbs |
| Oscar Delp | Georgia | 6’5″ | 290 lbs |
| Trevor Etienne | Florida | 6’3″ | 255 lbs |
Seeking an Explosive Wide Receiver
The Texans’ offense has lacked a true downfield threat at wide receiver for years. With the departure of Will Fuller in free agency, the team is in desperate need of a playmaker who can stretch the field and create scoring opportunities. In the 2025 NFL Draft, there are several intriguing wide receiver prospects who could fill that void.
Number 9: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State
Measurables: 6’1″, 200 lbs, 4.48s 40-yard dash
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is one of the most prolific wide receivers in college football history. He set FBS records for receiving yards (1,606) and touchdowns (15) in a single season in 2021. Smith-Njigba is a versatile receiver who can line up anywhere on the field and make plays. He has excellent hands, runs crisp routes, and possesses elite speed and acceleration. Smith-Njigba would be an instant impact player for the Texans and would give them the explosive playmaker they have been missing.
Here is a table summarizing Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s key stats from the 2021 season:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Receiving Yards | 1,606 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 15 |
| Receptions | 95 |
| Yards per Reception | 16.9 |
10. Securing a Top Safety: Bryce Anderson (Texas A&M)
Bryce Anderson, a highly-touted safety from Texas A&M, has emerged as a potential first-round selection in 2025. Standing at 6’2″, Anderson possesses exceptional size and athleticism. His instincts and anticipation skills are remarkable, allowing him to read plays and make game-changing interceptions. Anderson’s ability to cover deep routes and support the run game makes him a valuable asset to any secondary.
Key Strengths:
| Strength | Details |
|---|---|
| Size and Athleticism | 6’2″, with excellent speed and agility |
| Instincts and Anticipation | Reads plays well and anticipates routes |
| Covering Ability | Effective in both man and zone coverage |
| Tackling and Support | Strong tackler who contributes to run game |
Potential Fit:
Anderson would be a perfect complement to the Texans’ defense. His size, athleticism, and coverage skills would allow him to immediately compete for a starting role. He could form a formidable duo with Jalen Pitre, providing the Texans with a shutdown secondary for years to come.
Texans Mock Draft 2025
With the 2024 NFL season still underway, it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft. The Houston Texans are coming off a disappointing 3-13 season in 2023 and own the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft.
There is a lot of talent available in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Texans will have their pick of the litter. Here is a look at a Texans mock draft for 2025.
Round 1, Pick 2: Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Caleb Williams is the best quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. He is a dynamic playmaker who can make plays with his arm and his legs. Williams is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and he would be a major upgrade for the Texans’ offense.
Round 1, Pick 15: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
Kelvin Banks is a massive offensive tackle who has the potential to be a Pro Bowler. He is a physical specimen with great size and strength. Banks would help to protect the Texans’ quarterback and open up running lanes for the team’s running backs.
Round 1, Pick 28: Jake Heimlicher, EDGE, Clemson
Jake Heimlicher is a versatile edge rusher who can play both defensive end and outside linebacker. He is a great athlete with a quick first step and a knack for getting to the quarterback. Heimlicher would add much-needed pass-rushing ability to the Texans’ defense.
People Also Ask About Texans Mock Draft 2025
When is the 2025 NFL Draft?
The 2025 NFL Draft will be held on April 29-30, 2025.
Who has the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft currently belongs to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Who are the best prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Some of the best prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft include Caleb Williams (QB, USC), Kelvin Banks (OT, Texas), Jake Heimlicher (EDGE, Clemson), and Domani Jackson (CB, Southern Cal).
