Houston Texans: The Final Mock Draft

Nov 22, 2014; Champaign, IL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Deion Barnes (18) sets up to tackle Illinois Fighting Illini running back Donovonn Young (5) at Memorial Stadium. Illinois beat Penn State 16 to 14. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports

Round 6, 19th Pick: Deion Barnes, OLB/DE

Houston has three picks this year in the sixth round of the draft.

This will be fun to see what they choose to spend them on. It’s similar to winning a $50 gift card to an electronics store, it may not buy you much but it certainly can give you a leg up on something you’ve always wanted.

With the 19th pick, I think the Texans should go with Deion Barnes.

Barnes, a defensive end from Penn State, has been criticized for lacking natural pass rushing ability and strength, however, his versatility to play outside linebacker as well in a 3-4 defense should make him an attractive opportunity for head coach Bill O’Brien this year.

In the sixth round, it’s going to be rare to find someone who can both be a potential rushing threat as well as slide back and cover the edges from a linebacker’s perspective.

Barnes is the smart choice here.

Next: Round 6: Pick 35