How the Houston Texans can rebuild their defense this offseason

The Houston Texans and Lovie Smith have the opportunity to add multiple playmakers on defense in the new league year.

The Texans are bound to have a very interesting offseason with the impending trade of star QB Deshaun Watson, as well as potentially losing fan favorites Laremy Tunsil and Justin Reid. On the bright side, the Texans should receive a plethora of draft compensation for both Tunsil and Watson.

But finding a team that is going to take on Watson’s contract is going to be easier said than done. For some teams, acquiring Watson and Tunsil may mean that cuts or restructures have to happen. So what are the moves Houston can make to improve their defense?

Houston Texans get Chase Young in return for Deshaun Watson

The first step for the Texans this offseason should be the trade of Deshaun Watson. Although we don’t know where he will ultimately end up, one potential destination could be with the Washington Commanders, they have assets that should excite Texans fans.

The premier attraction would be Chase Young who would bring Houston a young pass-rushing star to pair up with Jonathan Greenard and create a terrifying one-two punch in the trenches. Adding someone like Young would give Houston the pass rusher they haven’t had since prime J.J. Watt.

In this mock trade, the Texans receive Chase Young, the 11th and 42nd pick in the 2022 NFL draft, as well as a first-round pick in 2023. It’s very likely the Texans ask for much more than this, but it is a good starting point in a potential  Watson trade and a step in the right direction to rebuild their defense.