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Houston Texans: Five positions to address in the draft

By Randy Gurzi

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 25, 2015; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) celebrates with Broncos offensive lineman Rees Odhiambo (71) after scoring a touchdown against the Virginia Cavaliers in the second quarter at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2015; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) celebrates with Broncos offensive lineman Rees Odhiambo (71) after scoring a touchdown against the Virginia Cavaliers in the second quarter at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Offensive Line

The starting five for Houston is actually pretty decent, if they can keep them in tact that is as both right guard Brandon Brooks and center Ben Jones are set to be free agents this offseason.

Depth was the issue though as 2015 saw injuries taking place at an alarming rate among the o-line. While a first round pick only makes sense if Houston loses both Brooks and Jones, they need to add to their unit that saw shuffling happen at every turn just to fill out a starting team.

Tackle Jeff Adams moved inside to guard and started before injuries ended his season. Swing tackle Chris Clark (who was acquired during the preseason via trade from the Denver Broncos) had to start at tackle while starting right tackle Derek Newton shifted inside to guard after Adams’ injury.

There were tackles starting that were picked up off other team’s practice squads and there were undrafted free agent rookies starting as well.

Houston must bring in some youth to develop, especially at the interior spots. Vadal Alexander from LSU is perhaps the top ranked guard in the draft and may be around when the Texans pick in the first, but not in the second.

Kansas State’s Cody Whitehair could be an option in round two, but again should the line stay in tact, this may be a bit high for a potential back up. More realistic options could be Boise State’s Rees Odhiambo, or Arkansas tackle/guard Denver Kirkland.

Next: No. 2

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