2014 NFL Mock Draft: A 7-round Houston Texans Draft

Jan 6, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Tre Mason (21) scores a touchdown against the Florida State Seminoles during the second half of the 2014 BCS National Championship game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2

Tre Mason, RB, Auburn

I know this may sound a tad bit crazy, but why not improve the running game with the second-round pick? The Texans have no real quality backup with Ben Tate more than likely leaving as a free agent, and who knows what the health of Arian Foster will be like in 2014, because a back injury is always tricky to recover from and then keep healthy.

Like it or not, the Texans need help at the running back position, and I really like Mason if he’s available at the start of the second round.

Mason, a 5-9, 205-pound junior, is the second-ranked running back on the CBS Draft Board and compares to Ray Rice.

It says in his draft analysis:

“Mason’s compact build, vision and ability to cut and go with underrated power is reminiscent of a young Rice.”

Even if Foster is healthy this season, Mason could fill in the role Tate played in while learning the way of the NFL. Plus, it looks as though a good running game is key in the postseason, which is where the Texans want to ultimately end up being next season.