2015 NFL Draft: Day Two Initial Grades For The Houston Texans

Sep 20, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) tackles LSU Tigers running back Terrence Magee (18) during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mississippi State defeated LSU 34-29. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The team was not as willing to be patient in round two and decided that it was better to package some of their remaining nine draft picks to move up and get the player they were coveting.

Houston sent their second, fourth and one of their sixth rounders in exchange for the Browns 43rd pick, while also netting an additional seventh rounder from Cleveland. With the selection the team filled a need by taking linebacker Benardrick McKinney from Mississippi State.

A look at the highlights from the former SEC standout can be found on Houstontexans.com. McKinney was a force in the middle and at 6’5″ and nearly 250 pounds he is more than big enough to take the beating of an NFL middle linebacker.

Where McKinney struggles is in pass coverage, as he never recorded an interception in his three seasons and had only eight defended passes (none in 2013).

What does he bring to Houston

He brings a solid tackler and great size to potentially line up as the second inside linebacker on day one for Houston. Pairing the sure tackler with current inside linebacker and playmaker Brian Cushing gives the team a strong one-two punch, while also bringing in a guy with less injury concerns than Cushing.

Draft Grade – A-

For McKinney, who actually cost the team more than one pick, the team earns a grade of A-, as they addressed a strong need, got a solid player and potential starter who was considered a first round talent by many scouts.

Next: Grade For The Texans Third Round Pick