Dec 7, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Auburn Tigers wide receiver Sammie Coates (18) catches a touchdown pass during the first quarter of the 2013 SEC Championship game against the Missouri Tigers at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports
Texans’ Draft Needs 2.0:
Nothing has majorly changed my opinion of the Houston Texans biggest draft needs over the past week. Outside of a couple practice squad pick-ups and the signing of veteran wide receiver Nate Washington, the free agency period has completely died down. Instead, the Texans were early spenders; they added Vince Wilfork, Rahim Moore, Cecil Shorts, and Brian Hoyer and re-signed Kareem Jackson, Derek Newton, and Ryan Mallet. These additions filled most of the team’s needs but here are the rest of them:
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- Wide Receiver: I am not sold that Cecil Shorts and Nate Washington were the answers the Texans are looking for at wide receiver as they look to replace Andre Johnson. The depth of this year’s wide receiver class allows for flexibility in the first round instead of being stuck on reaching for the next receiver at the 16th overall pick. If nobody falls, the Texans can attack this position in the first or second round.
- Linebacker: The Texans defensive line is expected to bring lots of pressure on opposing quarterbacks next year, especially if Jadaveon Clowney can play healthy after knee surgery. The secondary seems polished, but the Texans failed to address the fourth starting linebacker in Romeo Cronell’s 4-3 defensive scheme.
- Quarterback: Brian Hoyer vs. Ryan Mallet vs. Tom Savage…. ew.
- Tight End: Last years tight ends combined for a staggering 32 receptions, 316 yards, and 3 touchdowns (If we disregard JJ Watt’s goal line performances). I have put up those numbers with Gronk in a single game of Madden.
- Running Back: Alfred Blue didn’t show enough skills to be a viable backup behind Arian Foster. Expect a back taken in the mid to late rounds that will compete with Blue in the preseason.
- Offensive Line: Coach O’Brien is not afraid of moving his line around to start the five best talents no matter their natural position. Last years guard Ben Jones will be moved to center this year. 2014 draft pick Xavier Su’a-FIlo is now the starting guard. Adding some depth will be a focus in the middle rounds just in case the line rotation falters.
- Strong Safety: DJ Swearinger has had his moments, but has also been a liability in pass coverage. He can hit hard and is a threat for opposing wide receivers in the middle of the field, but the Texans can look for a replacement.
Next: Texans 7-Round Mock Draft