Texans should reunite QB-WR duo in NFL draft after combine performance
This combination could be lethal in Houston.
The Texans could have the opportunity to reunite a couple of collegiate star teammates.
This weekend at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis featured quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends. Ohio State QB CJ Stroud and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba were two of the biggest winners from the weekend.
The former college teammates showed out, with Stroud demonstrating impressive accuracy and arm strength, and Smith-Njigba testing off the charts.
Smith-Njigba achieved the best 3-cone drill time and the best 20-yard shuttle time among all receivers. The WR also caught nearly everything and looked crisp as a route runner. This is a great sign after the young pass-catcher missed most of the 2022 season due to injury.
Stroud did not partake in any of the athletic testing, opting to partake in these events at the Ohio State Pro Day later this month.
However, we did get to see Stroud throw, and he impressed. Stroud's passes seemed effortless and he had no problem connecting on deep passes. While we will want to see his athletic testing, Stroud definitely improved his stock this weekend.
If the Texans decide to stay put at two, there is a real possibility a team such as the Colts could leap them and select Bryce Young. In fact, this is exactly the scenario that PFF foresees happening.
If that's the case, expect the Texans to pivot to another QB. Enter CJ Stroud.
With the Stroud selection, the Texans would definitely be looking to upgrade his weapons with the teams' other first rounder. At the 12th pick, the team could go with WR Quentin Johnston out of TCU.
However, Johnston seems to be the top WR in the class and could be taken earlier than this. Enter Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
The 12th pick could be early for JSN, but i'm not ruling out a trade back here. After a strong combine performance, and with many receiver-needy teams, I also doubt JSN lasts until the second round.
The Texans could easily see JSN on the board and decide to reunite him with their new franchise QB and his old teammate. The duo has rapport from their time in Columbus and could adapt quickly to the NFL game.
In 2021, Stroud connected with Smith-Njigba 95 times for 1,606 yards and 9 TDs. If the duo could come even close to replicating that performance, Texans fans would be incredibly happy.
