Houston Texans: The 2021 NFL Draft and how they got here

(Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
(Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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Houston Texans, J.J. Watt, Deshaun Watson
Houston Texans J.J. Watt (99) Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

So Many Questions

The biggest question will be the status of Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson until things get resolved with his current off-the-field situation. That situation is completely up in the air, as is his playing status this season, his status as a Houston Texan, and his future. What is happening with Watson is a franchise’s worst nightmare.

With no early picks, the idea of drafting a potential replacement isn’t even an option. While it was rumored that the Clemson product could return multiple first round picks recently, it seems incredibly unlikely that he moves prior to the draft. If I had to guess, Tyrod Taylor will be the team’s starter at quarterback in 2021.

In a world where Watson does suit up this season, he would be without his favorite target Will Fuller. The speedster moved on from Houston and signed with the Miami Dolphins. The Notre Dame product was known to miss time with injuries, but his presence as a deep threat will be missed. Brandin Cooks remains on the team, and would likely be the number one option for whoever is running the show.

As mentioned, the defense will have a new look, both in names and in philosophy. The former Chicago Bears head coach will bring his Tampa 2 system to Houston as defensive coordinator. Caserio has brought in a bunch of bodies, but I’m sure that Smith and new head coach David Culley would like to find young playmakers to build their defense around.