Houston Texans: Ranking each of Bill O’Brien’s trades as general manager

2. The Laremy Tunsil trade with the Dolphins

When it was announced, the terms of this trade made by Bill O’Brien shocked every Houston Texans fan beyond belief. Sending two first-round picks for a player is usually reserved for the likes of someone like Khalil Mack or Jalen Ramsey, but the need for a top-tier left tackle in Houston was more than obvious.

The Texans had already drafted Tytus Howard in the first round that same year, but were looking to go all-in on a star tackle who could make the offensive line a strength rather than a liability.

Yes, the sheer amount of picks sent in this trade made it seem like they mortgaged their future to win right now. In a way, win-now mode can be extremely dangerous, but not nearly as dangerous as letting Deshaun Watson get sacked another 60-plus times, and putting the health of the young signal-caller at risk.

Julién Davenport and Johnson Bademosi had little value on the roster, but we are already seeing the effects of being strapped for draft capital and how it can affect team building.

Another other aspect of this trade that makes it a relative success for both teams was the inclusion of Kenny Stills, who worked his way for 561 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games this past season. Stills has never been a top option at receiver but continues to help Watson make major plays downfield and keeps the defense on its toes.

The Texans and Bill O’Brien may have been able to find a cheaper way to find the tackle of the future, but Tunsil earning a Pro Bowl nod in his first season with the franchise was a positive sign. If Tunsil can cut down on false start penalties this upcoming season, he can contend for top left tackle in the league status.