Will the Texans address the wide receiver position in the draft?

DeAndre Hopkins is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. Will Fuller V is a nice complimentary wide receiver who can take advantage of one-on-one matchups. Outside of that there is little to get excited about. Due to their overall lack of depth at the position will the Texans draft a wide receiver?

After Hopkins and Fuller the talent at wide receiver drops off drastically. Bruce Ellington was brought back after he became a free agent. While Ellington can contribute on the offensive side of the ball, he is best used on special teams. Sammie Coates was released by the Browns and subsequently claimed by Houston. Coates caught six passes for 70 yards in 12 games with Cleveland. Like Ellington, Coates is best utilized on special teams. Braxton Miller is a gifted athlete who transitioned to wide receiver after playing quarterback at Ohio State. In fact Miller changed positions during his final year as a Buckeye. While Miiller continues to grow, he is still more of a project that needs time to develop.

Who could the Texans take in the draft?

This is a difficult question to answer. Houston does not hold a draft pick until the third round. There is the option of sitting and waiting until round three to make a move. There is also the option to trade up into round two. Both options are possible. Houston holds three picks in round three (one compensatory) and could trade up if desired.

There a few options for the Texans to choose from.

Deon Cain: Clemson

Deon Cain has good size and speed for a wide receiver. The only issue is that Cain has trouble gaining separation in his routes. This could pose a problem since separation is much harder to come by in the NFL than college. As a second or third receiver with Hopkins and Fuller, Cain could benefit from lesser defenders covering him.

Simmie Cobbs: Indiana

Simmie Cobbs is a large physical receiver who shined at Indiana. The issue with Cobbs is that he lacks speed. Cobbs tends to be more of a slower receiver than desired. As a result, balls tend to get defended when thrown to Cobbs much easier than other receivers. That being said, Cobbs could be a nice redzone target for Deshaun Watson if Hopkins is double covered.

When could these receivers be options for Houston?

Cain could be available at the end of round two or beginning of round three. Houston may have to trade up to select Cain if they want him to be a part of their team.

Cobbs should still be available for a little while afterwards. After round three is entirely possible for Cobbs. If Houston decides to address other positions before wide receiver, Cobbs would be a great selection later in the draft.

Both receivers are talented and could fit will in the Texans offense to provide more depth at the position. Acquiring more pass catchers will be crucial for the growth of the Texans in 2018 and beyond.