The Houston Texans did a solid job filling more of the team's needs, both in the secondary and with depth on the offensive line.
I loved the pick of cornerback Kamari Lassiter, who I believe only fell because of his 4.65 forty time. He's clearly a good athlete on the field, and he moves with incredible fluidity. He might be the best player in this draft when it comes to changing direction.
The other second-round pick of offensive tackle, Blake Fisher, was one that I liked but did not love. A lot of buzz suggests the Texans will move Tytus Howard back inside to the left guard, giving Fisher the starting nod on the right side.
If this is the plan, then I am not a fan of the pick. Tytus is a great tackle and an alright guard, which might be generous. I like the idea of maintaining solid depth at the position, however. If they are bringing Fisher in to be a swing tackle behind two players who both missed time last season, then this is not a bad idea.
Safety Calen Bullock out of USC might have been my favorite draft selection. He is a ball hawk who plays his best ball in deep coverage, tracking down receivers and passes alike, which both Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward have struggled with. He was likely the best free safety prospect in this class and a steal for the third round.
Cade Stover was a selection that sent a lot of heads spinning, but I say happy Stroud, then happy crowd. He played well with quarterback CJ Stroud at Ohio State University, and bringing the connection back is not a bad selection, given the fourth-round price.
Other than these picks, sixth-rounder Jawhar Jordan was the only other selection that jumped off the page to me. He is a steal of a sixth-rounder, and someone I think will wow come fall camp. He has excellent vision and is as quick as a jackrabbit. Once Jordan gets going, there is no chance for defenders to hunt him down, which led to several touchdowns over 30 yards. In addition, he brought in a few kick returns to the house. Be on the lookout for Jordan to be back, returning kicks in Week 1.
Overall, I liked the draft class, but it could have been better. Houston's biggest need was defensive tackle, and they waited until the last round to bring anybody in. Suppose Coach Ryans feels that strongly about Denico Autry, then so be it, but Houston could use more on the defensive interior. Additionally, I would have liked them to pick up either Payton Wilson or Edefuan Ulofoshio, who were both available in the middle rounds during the Texans' picks.
Final Grade: B
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