The Texans’ 2025 draft class was built on depth and long-term projection, but several rookies have already seen meaningful snaps early in their careers.
Let’s break down each selection and where things stand through the first half of the season:
Round 2, Pick 34: Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
Thrown right into the fire as a rookie, Higgins has been a steady early contributor in Houston’s offense. Through six games, he’s caught nine passes for 121 yards and a touchdown, rotating in and out of the starting lineup.
At 6-foot-4, he’s brought length and physicality to the perimeter, flashing the tools to potentially develop into a future WR2 within Houston's aerial attack.
Round 2, Pick 48: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Ersery has stepped into massive shoes following the offseason trade of Laremy Tunsil -- and he’s held his own.
The former Golden Gopher has started every game at tackle (one at right, five at left), showing poise in protecting C.J. Stroud’s blindside. For a rookie thrown into a premium position, his early signs of production, although not perfect, has been a win for Houston’s offensive line.
Round 3, Pick 79: Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
The Texans doubled up on Cyclone wideouts, and Noel has started to find his rhythm.
His Week 7 performance against Seattle was a breakout moment -- four receptions, 77 yards -- adding to a season total of nine receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown. With quickness and reliable hands, Noel has carved out a complementary role behind the starters and could become a key slot option as the year progresses.
Round 3, Pick 97: Jaylin Smith, DB, USC
Smith’s rookie year has been limited by injury, but the flashes are intriguing when turning on the tape.
He’s an undersized, versatile secondary presence who can play in the box, cover ground in space, and make an impact on special teams. His physical nature and range evoke shades of Jalen Pitre -- and even a bit of Budda Baker. Once healthy, Smith could be an energy piece in Houston’s secondary.
Round 4, Pick 116: Woody Marks, RB, USC
Marks has been a valuable rotational weapon both on the ground and through the air. The rookie back has logged 152 rushing yards and two total touchdowns while catching nine passes for 116 yards.
His versatility and vision have given Houston’s backfield a change-of-pace spark behind veteran Nick Chubb.
Round 6, Pick 187: Jaylen Reed, S, Penn State
Reed made his NFL debut in Week 7 against Seattle, with all of his snaps coming via special teams.
He remains a developmental prospect with good athletic traits, the common theme for players out of Happy Valley.
Round 6, Pick 197: Graham Mertz, QB, Florida
Mertz didn’t crack the 53-man roster but is developing on the Texans’ practice squad. His experience and processing could make him a viable long-term backup option down the line.
Round 7, Pick 224: Kyonte Hamilton, DL, Rutgers
Another practice squad player, Hamilton provides developmental depth along the defensive line. He’s a strong, stout interior player who could see opportunities later in the season if injuries arise.
My thoughts from last years draft process on Hamilton:
Want a sleeper? Rutgers iDL Kyonte Hamilton has the goods.
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 6, 2025
Zero buzz for his game around the industry & a player scouts have tried to keep a secret. Former wrestler, outstanding twitch at his size (will play at 305) that flashes up-down a defensive front. pic.twitter.com/x67q1itrfS
Round 7, Pick 255: Luke Lachey, TE, Iowa
The final pick of Houston’s class, Lachey also resides on the practice squad. A solid blocker with soft hands, he’s a name to monitor for future depth at tight end.
Overall, the 2025 class already features two starters in Higgins and Ersery, with Noel and Marks emerging as solid role players. Smith remains a wild card due to injury, while the back end of the draft offers developmental potential.