BREAKING NEWS:Texans Daily Mock Draft: Houston Builds ‘DeMeco’ Defense Early

‘ first season featured a defensive turnaround, particularly against the run. Houston finished dead last in run support the prior two seasons. Houston ended in the top ten a year ago, with only two rushing backs totaling more than 100 yards.

Jonathan Greenard and Sheldon Rankins are free agents following successful seasons. Both have expressed a desire to return, but they are also aware of their current market value. According to Spotrac, Rankins’ predicted yearly worth is $9.9 million, while Greenard’s is around $13.4 million.

Robinson exploded onto the scene when he came at Penn State. Last season, the Nittany Lions led all FBS schools in run defence, with Robinson recording 7.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.
Houston would be betting on qualities rather than output, but Robinson would provide the organization with two building stones off the edge, with a double-digit sack trajectory on rookie contracts expected through 2028.

 

What is the asking price for Dalton Schultz? The former Dallas Cowboys tight end served as a security blanket for Stroud and became an important element of the passing game. He’ll get interest on a multi-year contract, but will Caserio be willing to pay the market price?

Sanders was perhaps college football’s second-best tight end over the last two seasons, trailing Brock Bowers. He’s a consistent target who can line up anywhere and convert short routes into big gains.

Sanders’ run blocking is still a work in progress, but he can create separation from defensive backs and linebackers to keep drives going while using his speed to gain a few yards after the catch. The combination of Nico Collins, Tank Dell, and Sanders could create nightmare circumstances for defensive coordinators on third-down plays.
Blake Cashman and Denzel Perryman are on the open market. Cashman is coming off a spectacular season and is looking to cash in. Perryman was inconsistent at times from the MIKE position, and Houston may be hoping for more consistency.

 

According to film, Wilson is the best linebacker prospect in the class. He has great closing speed against the run, which allows him to close the gap ahead of offensive linemen. The reigning Bednarik Award winner also possesses excellent instincts, making him a threat to blitz late or add value in coverage.

Aside from injury concerns and age (he’ll be 24 as a rookie), Wilson is the type of athlete required in the middle to command Ryan’s defence opposite Christian Harris. The option carries some risk, but the potential is too amazing to pass up.

Desmond King, Tavierre Thomas, and D’Angelo Ross are all free agents. The Texans might look for a safety in free agency and move Jalen Pitre closer to the line of scrimmage. They could also bring in a versatile player who adds value throughout the secondary.

 

Sainristil does it all, everywhere. He has experience playing on the boundary and at safety, and he shines in the nickel. The former Michigan star excels in coverage and moves fluidly when breaking on balls versus receivers. His bulk will not frighten receivers, but his playing style will. When attacking in the open field, Sainristil plays with confidence but never loses sight of the fundamentals. At worst, Sainristil provides special teams value and depth as a rookie with starting potential.

There can never be too much depth in the trenches. Wingo started two seasons for the Bayou Bengals and shown his ability to defend the run. Because of his size, he needs to concentrate on pass-rushing, but the attributes are to believe in the potential while working under Ryan’s approach.

Houston will most likely address the receiver position through free agency. That does not mean the Texans will not pursue a pass-catcher. Cephus, the Roadrunners’ all-time leader in catches and receiving yards, is coming off a great year. A 6-3 outside receiver with red zone potential may be a valuable pickup on Day 3.

 

In the later rounds, teams focus on attributes. Ryan’s ‘Swarm’ mantra suggests that Houston is searching for physical players who can close the distance quickly. Perry was a tackling machine for the Horned Frogs and improved his coverage in 2023, breaking up four passes. He also possesses outstanding speed, which would be useful for kickoffs and punts.

With Devin Singletary set to hit free agency, will Houston make a significant move at tailback? Even with the signing of Saquon Barkley or Josh Jacobs, depth is critical owing to their injury histories. Jordan is a “change-of-pace” back with the ability to make failed tackles in space. He also averaged more than 10 yards per grab out of the backfield during his final two seasons at Louisville.