Texans need to address secondary in the upcoming NFL Draft

A secondary who is unable to adequately cover receivers is a group who needs help. That is the case with the Houston Texans. Bringing back Johnathan Joseph on a two-year deal is a great start. Signing Tyrann Mathieu to a one-year deal is a low risk but potentially high reward. Even with the moves they made, they still need more help. Luckily for the Texans they can solidify the secondary in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Donte Jackson – LSU

Donte Jackson is incredibly athletic and quick. This allows Jackson to make plays and slow down the opponents passing game. The only issue is that Jackson needs to work on his play recognition. Natural athleticism and speed can cover for his issues for a little bit but improvement is needed if Jackson is to become a productive defensive back in the NFL.

Jackson is projected to be selected in the second round. Without a second round pick the Texans would need to trade up into round two to select him. With three third round picks this is entirely possible. A player like Jackson would strengthen the depth of the Houston secondary and potentially be the next wave of young defensive backs for the Texans.

M.J. Stewart – North Carolina

M.J. Stewart possesses great play recognition and has the instincts to not get beaten by sudden cuts by receivers. The issue is that Stewart lacks the top end speed to play cornerback. In fact Stewart may project better as a safety.

If the Texans were to select Stewart one of two things will happen. Stewart will be Mathieu’s replacement as early as next season or will play next to Mathieu to solidify the secondary.

Stewart is expected to drafted as early as round two or in round three. This could allow the Texans to stand pat with their draft picks and select Stewart if he falls to them in the beginning of round three.

Tony Brown – Alabama

Tony Brown is another secondary player who is not yet a complete player. Size and speed is what allows Brown to be a productive player. Brown is fantastic in run support and as potentially a nickel cornerback. From the start of the season Brown may be best suited to a special teams player before making the leap to starting defense.

The issue with Brown is that he often gives space for the receiver to catch the ball. As a result Brown does not have the pass defense numbers that others do in this draft. Brown needs to work on changes in direction.

Brown is projected to be a third round pick. It is entirely possible and realistic that Brown will be available when the Texans pick which would result in Houston being able use as many as their own draft picks as possible.