Houston Texans Draft: 5 potential targets at No. 67 overall
By Brian Emory
No. 3: Alim McNeill, DL, NC State
The Texans’ 2020 defensive woes have been well-documented this offseason. Houston’s defense was one of the league’s worst last year, and it is not an understatement to say that every position group on the unit could use upgrades.
Sure, the Texans spent their first draft choice on Ross Blacklock last year, but that certainly shouldn’t keep the team from heading in that direction again tonight if there is a prospect they like enough. The league’s best defenses have a consistent cast of players that they can rotate along the defensive line.
NC State’s Alim McNeil has been soaring up draft boards over the last few months. McNeil entered the process as a projected mid-round selection, but now he seems like an absolute lock to hear his name called on Friday night. There is definitely a chance he won’t even make it to the Houston Texans’ choice at 67th overall.
If there, McNeil would be a phenomenal addition to a defense that desperately needs young building blocks. McNeil is still learning the defensive tackle position, but his physical profile is very enticing. Despite being new to the position, McNeil already excels in run defense and also boasts some fascinating potential as a pass rusher.