The Houston Texans find themselves in a very interesting spot. They are a team that has too many holes in their roster to fix with only one pick. They currently hold the 2nd overall pick in the NFL draft and are in dire need of a quarterback. Despite this, many analysts are suggesting that they may end up trading the pick and moving down. There are cases to be made for either choice, however, there is also a clear decision that should be made.
Case to Take a QB
Currently, the Texans starting quarterback is Davis Mills. While he has done alright under center thus far in his career, it is very clear that he is not capable of leading an NFL team. With the second overall pick, Houston will still have the chance of picking up an elite prospect.
The Carolina Panthers will most likely select Bryce Young with the first pick in the draft, this will leave the Texans with the opportunity to pick C.J. Stroud. Stroud had an incredible two-year career with the Ohio State Buckeyes, and there is no reason why his game will not translate to the NFL.
Recently, there have been some negative headlines questioning Stroud’s character and decision-making ability that could potentially lead to Houston passing on him. However, this would not be the best option for the team moving forward. With the team also holding the 12th overall pick, they could pick his college teammate Jaxson Smith-Njigba to join him. The duo was one of the best in college football when they were on the field together, and would have a great chance of continuing their success in Houston.
Why They Could Pass
If the Texans are out on Stroud, they could trade the pick to try to fill more of the holes on their roster. Next years quarterback class is set to be a great one with Caleb Williams being the crown jewel. If Houston is okay with continuing their extensive rebuild another season, they could use this draft to better round out their roster before tanking to select Williams in 2024.
This is a plan that could end up blowing up in their faces. If they are unable of getting the top pick, it will be almost impossible to trade up to number one next year. This could leave them in a position where they select a quarterback that is worse than Stroud in next years draft.
What Should Houston Do?
With Houston needing a major restructure to their roster, they should trade down from the second overall pick. However, it is essential that they pull the tank off successfully next season and not go on a last-second hot streak like they did this year.
If they are able to build up their defense and skill positions in this draft before selecting Caleb Williams in the 2024 draft, it would be a plan executed to perfection. Williams is said to have the potential to be a generational talent, and he is set to set the NCAA ablaze next season for the USC Trojans. This two-year plan could set the Texans up to run the AFC South for the foreseeable future.
