The Houston Texans are an extremely interesting team to evaluate right now. With head coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback CJ Stroud entrenched with the organization, the future should be very bright, in theory anyway. Figuring out their playoff woes is going to be the next major question mark to answer. 

To help hopefully get over that playoff hump, the 2026 NFL Draft is going to offer another huge opportunity. In my latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft, protecting Stroud at all costs was the main priority. From there, it was about filling some of the most pressing needs on the roster. Both were accomplished in a big way with the nine total selections. 

Round 1, Pick 28: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida 

With the offensive line board drying up a bit heading into the selection, the Texans would be wise to pivot to the defensive trenches. When Banks is on the field, it’s easy to buy into the 6-6, 335-pound behemoth with unreal movement skills. It’s exciting to think about what he could accomplish on the same defensive line as Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. 

Round 2, Pick 38: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson 

Blessed with long arms and impressive foot quickness, Miller has the requisite skill set to start early at right tackle. The key will be to continue developing his core strength. If his power profile ever matches his movement skills, we are talking about a plus starter for a long time. 

Round 2, Pick 59: Chase Bisontis, IOL, Texas A&M

Bisontis still needs to develop his run game consistency, but his floor as a pass protector is very high. With the emphasis on protecting Stroud at all costs, slotting Bisontis inside immediately would be a big help. The interior would gain a bump instantly. 

Round 3, Pick 69: Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington 

Due to some underwhelming production during the second half of the 2025 season, some have begun to underrate Coleman. He is a physical runner with unreal contact balance and determination. Coleman also looked a lot twitchier as an athlete in 2025 before getting banged up. 

Round 4, Pick 106: Kyle Louis, LB, Pitt

While Louis isn’t a very big linebacker, he is a tenacious defender with some impressive movement skills. He has spent a lot of time as an overhang defender at Pitt, which has helped his overall feel in coverage. Life in passing downs and in sub should be boosted by Louis instantly. 

Round 4, Pick 128: Justin Joly, TE, NC State 

Joly is a seam runner at the tight end position with impressive ball skills. For a team that is able to get him isolated against linebackers and smaller safeties, he could create some mismatch opportunities. The Texans should be in the market to add to their tight end room this offseason. 

Round 5, Pick 165: DeMonte Capehart, DT, Clemson 

Capehart never developed the way some hoped, but he still brings a massive frame and notable power. Even if he just becomes an asset in the run game in a rotational role, it becomes a value at this point in the draft. Perhaps Ryans and Co. could end up getting the most out of him. 

Round 7, Pick 243: Nadame Tucker, EDGE, Western Michigan 

The former Houston transfer is an extremely undersized EDGE, but he could bring some value on third downs. Tucker’s first step is good, showcasing the ability to win the corner. Showing any value on special teams will determine whether Tucker has a chance to develop his third-down impact on the next level. 

Round 7, Pick 244: Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington 

Prysock is a tall cornerback with outstanding length. While he has some limitations due to being high cut, that profile is worth developing. At worst, he could end up being a big value on special teams to find a sticking point.

Houston Texans News

DeMeco Ryans shrugs off C.J. Stroud’s costly mistakes that can derail Texans’ Super Bowl run

Stroud’s errors have to stop or else the Texans won’t last much longer.

Evan Winter