Houston Texans win big, now look towards draft

Aug 16, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans owner Bob McNair (left) and general manager Rick Smith (middle) and chief operating officer Cal McNair (right) watch during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 16, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans owner Bob McNair (left) and general manager Rick Smith (middle) and chief operating officer Cal McNair (right) watch during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Houston Texans struck big to begin the 2016 free agency period, but what does the draft hold?

The Houston Texans just might have accomplished their biggest one-two punch signings in franchise history. The 2016 free agency has just begun and the Texans have already made it their most iconic with the signing of both quarterback Brock Osweiler and running back Lamar Miller, but what’s next?

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The 2016 NFL Draft is just a month away and the Texans hold the 22 overall pick. Most experts and mock drafts had the team selecting Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliot or a quarterback in the first round, but with the signing of Miller and Osweiler, all of that is expected to change.

A key factor to focus on is that although the Texans filled two big holes at the quarterback and running back positions, the team had to make some sacrifices. Center Ben Jones packed his bags and his heading to the Tennessee Titans and guard Brandon Brooks is now with the Philadelphia Eagles. Both starters and both on the offensive line. To cope with those losses, the Texans also went out and signed former Kansas City Chiefs guard Jeff Allen and Ex-Raiders center Tony Bergstrom.

So the question arises, should the Texans take an offensive lineman in the first round?

A team can never go wrong with taking an offensive big man in the first round. They’re one of the most valuable players and a strong line can take a team deep in the playoffs. If the Texans want to be successful they’re going to need people to protect their new big-money quarterback and create holes for their new running back. What makes more sense then selecting a lineman?

Offensive lineman to keep an eye on: Ronnie Stanley (OT/Notre Dame), Ryan Kelly (C/Alabama), Sebastian Tretola (G/Arkansas)

The Texans could also go in another direction and look to draft a wide receiver. They can use their first round pick to provide support for star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The team is in desperate need of a consistent No. 2 wide receiver and this option would also equip Osweiler with more weapons.

Wide receivers to keep an eye on: Will Fuller (WR/Notre Dame), Michael Thomas (WR/Ohio State), Laquon Tredwell (WR/Ole Miss).

With the offseason signings of Osweiler and Miller, the entire outlook of Houston’s draft has changed. More details regarding the team’s draft intentions will unravel in the upcoming weeks as pro days take place; but whether Houston’s first round pick is used on an offensive lineman or a wide receiver, either-or would add much needed depth to the team.

Next: Elway takes a jab at the newest Texan

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