Mid-To-Late Round Pass Rushing Options For The Houston Texans

Jan 17, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; West defensive lineman Kyle Emanuel (53), of North Dakota State, rushes during the second half at the East-West Shrine Game at Tropicana Field. The East beat the West 19-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Kyle Emanuel, North Dakota State

Not too long ago, North Dakota State defensive end, Kyle Emanuel may have been considered a potential late-round steal, but recently he has been getting a lot of attention from NFL teams. It’s not a shock he has drawn some eyes as he was an integral piece for a team that won multiple FCS-Titles.

In 2014 Emanuel took down opposing quarterbacks at a frenzied pace and finished the year with 19.5 sacks. Standing 6’3″ and weighing 255 pounds, the 2014 Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Year should have no problem moving from a defensive end to a 3-4 linebacker for Houston.

The recent interest he is drawing now has predictions showing him going as high as round three. If he is available when the Texans are on the clock in that round (provided they have not addressed the position yet of course) Emanuel could be a very solid selection.

While the other guys on this list may need some time to groom, this young man could surprise people and perform from day one, despite playing at a lower divisional school.

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