Houston Texans Possible Draft Target: Tight End Maxx Williams
By Randy Gurzi
The Houston Texans made a remarkable turn around in 2014 to finish with a 9-7 record. In order to take the next step and become a perennial contender, they have to continue to draft smart. Making big reaches for players who can be busts is easy to do. However, in the past the Houston organization has shown an ability to steer clear of the “flashy” name.
Williams is the best tight end in the class – McShay
Although defensive end Mario Williams has since moved to Buffalo and linebacker Jadeveon Clowney is currently struggling with injuries, both picks can be praised for who the team opted to pass on. In 2006, the team passed on the much hyped and assumed number one overall pick running back Reggie Bush, and took Williams. Williams has had a stellar career whereas Bush has been a complimentary back for three different teams.
Again this year, many thought the team would reach for a quarterback, like current Cleveland Browns passer Johnny Manziel. The team let Manziel go, and took who they felt was the best player. Again in 2015, this same thinking should take place.
With the same mentality of picking solid players, there may be several options to go with and the team may have to balance the best player approach with who fits their roster. One guy who could slide in quickly become a starter would be Minnesota tight end Maxx Williams.
At 6’4″ and 250 pounds Williams fits the size of a prototypical NFL tight end. In 12 games played in 2014, he finished with 36 catches for 569 yards and eight scores. He only played two seasons of college football so there is still plenty of room to grow.
ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay called Williams a second round pick, but also claimed he is the best prospect at the position this year.
"“I think [Williams is] the best tight end in the class if he comes out,” McShay said, and Williams made it official last week that he’s leaving college early for the draft. “I think he’ll probably be second round pick, somewhere in that range.”"
Maxx is the son of former New York Giants center, Brian Williams and grandson of former Notre Dame quarterback Robert Williams (who was drafted in the NFL by the Bears but never played for them). With such bloodlines, coupled with a need at the position, whether Williams stays in the second round or works his way up into the first round with his work in the combine, Houston needs to keep their eyes on the 20 year old, third generation football player.