Houston Texans: Projected starting lineup before the NFL Draft

CB: Bradley Roby and Lonnie Johnson

This part of the secondary will be a major camp decision in order to determine who becomes the second starting cornerback after the departure of Jonathan Joseph.

Joseph held down his spot for nine seasons and admirably led the secondary throughout the 2010s, but now it’s Bradley Roby’s turn to show why he was a first-round pick in 2014. His new contract is worth $36 million over three years. Some considered that to be overpaid, but the stage is set for him to continue his hot streak this year.

The No. 2 spot is up for grabs between second-year second round pick Lonnie Johnson and Gareon Conley, who came over via trade from the Oakland Raiders. Neither is particularly adept at holding down their respective side of the field, but a major breakout is necessary to keep the secondary intact.

Johnson is currently listed as the starter despite his 36.0 rating by Pro Football Focus, which is a full 32.1 points lower than the more experienced Conley. Cornerback is a major position of need going into the draft, and a second-round pick should be used here.

Specialists: Ka’imi Fairbairn (K), Trevor Daniel (P), DeAndre Carter (KR/PR)

Both DeAndre Carter and Ka’imi Fairbairn were brought back this offseason, and the lack of punting competition indicates Trevor Daniel will retain his starting role as well.