After making a draft day trade, the first of two fourth-round picks in the Houston Texans draft was offensive tackle Charlie Heck of North Carolina with the 126th overall selection.
What the heck is going on with this pick made by the Houston Texans draft makers? OK, just kidding, the Texans draft went with Charlie Heck, an offensive tackle from the University of North Carolina. The selection was the 126th overall pick in the fourth round, as the Texans continue trying to add depth to the o-line roster the past two drafts.
Last year, the Texans selected Tytus Howard (offensive tackle) in the first round, and the second round last year saw Max Scharping (offensive guard) be selected. Both players were in the starting lineup at times this past season.
The Texans draft decision makers know they can’t forget about the offensive line in this 2020 NFL Draft after selecting defense in the second round (Ross Blacklock), and third round (Jonathan Greenard), so with two fourth-round picks, the first one has been designated to the offensive line.
Player Profile: Charlie Heck does need some work in just getting better to play offensive line in the NFL. Heck is 6’7″ and 311 pounds and played in 43 career games with the Tar Heels, including being a two-year starter his junior and senior season, Heck’s father (Andy Heck) played 12 seasons in the NFL and is currently an assistant coach with the Kansas City Chiefs.
At the NFL Combine this past year, Heck ran a 5.16 40-yard dash, and had 21 reps in the bench press at 225 pounds. The improvement that will be needed comes with the pass rush.
Player Stats: One thing about Charlie Heck is as Mel Kiper Jr. said during the ESPN Draft coverage is he’s “coachable,” so that will be a plus for Heck as he works to build his way on the Texans roster. Heck did break his hand in the 2019 season, as he allowed less than a full sack all season long, giving him second-team All-ACC honors. Heck also at UNC his senior season had 43 knockdowns, which was the team-high.
Pick Opinion: This isn’t the most exciting pick, but taking an offensive lineman in the fourth round is a smart move because they need to keep building the depth of the tackles for future seasons.
Draft Pick Grade: C
Final Thoughts: Heck won’t be ready to be in the starting lineup at tackle for the ’20 season as Laremy Tunsil and Howard have that role filled. But over time, who knows what is in store for Heck, as he could improve over time, but it seems he’s willing to put in the work needed to become a better football player. Don’t forget the name Charlie Heck as eventually the Texans will need him on the offensive line.