2015 NFL Draft: Houston Texans Recap, Analysis

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Texans made headlines at the outset of free agency by parting ways with longtime star, and face of the franchise, receiver Andre Johnson. After that move, they remained relatively quiet by making smaller moves and acquiring talent at a very fair price. The biggest news in the free agency signing happened when they brought in nose tackle Vince Wilfork.

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Then came the NFL draft and for the first round the team again decided to go about their business with as little noise as possible. They stayed put and made their selection of Wake Forest cornerback Kevin Johnson.

However, things changed from here on out as the team started to make use of their ten total picks they owned heading into the draft with. They moved up in rounds two and three to take players they really wanted, but then again finished the draft much like free agency. Staying quiet and making smart moves that could pay off big later.

Overall the Texans had a great draft and were even rewarded with a grade of A- by Sports Illustrated, and the picks were praised by Chris Burke.

"“Loved the work Houston did in rounds 1-3, for the most part. Kevin Johnson is a plug-and-play cornerback, and he buys the Texans wiggle room as Johnathan Joseph heads toward free agency next off-season. Benardrick McKinney is an intimidating presence at inside linebacker, which was a position of need. One nitpick: The Texans really could have used some coverage help next to Brian Cushing, and that’s where McKinney is at his worst. Getting wide receiver Jaelen Strong at 70 was robbery. He will not catch 85 passes, as Andre Johnson did in 2014, but he should fly past Johnson’s three-touchdown total. Michigan State receiver Keith Mumphrey and Rice defensive tackle Christian Covington both fall in the “underrated” category here. It will be tough for either to make the final 53-man roster, but both guys will go down swinging if they fall short.”—Chris Burke Sports Illustrated"

Let’s take a look at the players selected and how they will help the Housoton Texans.

Next: Kevin Johnson, First Round Pick