The Houston Texans may not have dominated the NFL draft weekend, but they certainly emerged as winners in the offseason. Adding nine new players to their roster, including talents like Kamari Lassiter from Georgia and Calen Bullock from USC, has bolstered their lineup. While some of these acquisitions are expected to make an immediate impact, others, such as Marcus Harris from Auburn and Blake Fisher from Notre Dame, are seen as long-term investments.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans expressed his enthusiasm for the newcomers, emphasizing their quality and their potential to enhance the team’s depth and competitiveness.
Opinions on the Texans’ draft performance vary among experts, with most placing them in the middle tier, typically receiving grades around a “B.” However, Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranked them 28th overall for the 2024 season. He particularly commended GM Nick Caserio for selecting Lassiter, recognizing his potential despite a slower-than-expected 40-yard dash time during UGA’s pro day.
The Texans didn’t have a draft pick in the top 40, putting them at a disadvantage for these rankings. They did, however, draft two promising players in the second round: Lassiter and Blake Fisher. Although several teams were concerned about his lack of speed, Lassiter’s tape shows a tough, competitive player — and it was clear DeMeco Ryans saw the same thing. — Dane Brugler
As for a player he believes could surprise fans in Year 1, Brugler singled out Ohio State tight end Cade Stover, who already knows what Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud is looking for given their time together in Columbus.
After their rookie quarterback had a record-setting season, what could the Texans do to help him continue to climb? Adding his college tight end is one idea. Stover might not truly have an A-level trait, but he is well-rounded as an athlete, pass catcher and blocker. — Brugler
Draft grades mean little now as live reps will determine who lives up to the hype and which prospects crumble under the pressure. Most of the Texans’ new additions will be limited in their roles in Year 1 given the state of the roster following a productive free-agent period.
Brugler also had questions surrounding two of the other three AFC South teams, listing Tennesee and Jacksonville 26th and 29th overall, respectively. While a fan of the first-round selections, there’s questions among the rest of the roster.
There are still moves to be made this offseason before the Texans return Week 1, but it is shaping up to be a promising year down off NRG Drive for the reigning AFC South champions.
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