Texans had an official meeting with top SEC QB
The Texans are weighing all their options at the quarterback position.
The Texans are doing their due diligence on quarterbacks ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft.
The team holds the second pick in the draft and is widely projected to take a QB. With the Chicago Bears (currently) holding the first pick, it seems likely that the Texans will have their choice of any QB they want.
Thursday, March 2nd, marked the start of the annual NFL Scouting Combine in Indianpolis. With the Houston brass in Indy, it was reported that there was a meeting with a notable SEC QB.
Per Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, the Texans were "one of several formal meetings," for Florida QB Anthony Richardson. It is expected that the team will meet with all top QB prospects, including Will Levis, CJ Stroud, and Bryce Young.
The Texans' interest in Richardson is notabe for a couple of reasons. For starters, Richardson might just be the most boom-or-bust QB in the class. Additionally, most draft boards have Young, Stroud, and Levis ahead of Richardson.
In college for the Gators, Richardson showcased dual-threat ability and rare arm strength. The QB is surprisingly mobile for his 6'4", 250-pound frame.
Concerns about Richardson include below-average accuracy and inexperience. Richardson spent only one season in Gainesville as the full-time starter. In 2022 as the starter, Richardson finished with 2,549 passing yards, 17 TDs, and 9 INTs. The dual-threat QB also added 654 rushing yards and 9 rushing TDs.
The Texans meeting with Richardson first could have been done just to accomodate schedules, or it could be an indicator of strong interest. With the Texans desperately needing a star signal-caller, a high-ceiling, low-floor prospect like Richardson might be a risky move.
The team prioritizing QB meetings early at the combine might be a sign that a QB will be the pick at number two. While that has generally been the consensus, much could change if Chicago moves the number one pick.
