We have exactly 87 days left until NFL Draft Night.
For the Houston Texans, this evening will be both rare and overdue. Last year, as part of the trade for Will Anderson Jr., they chose to forgo their first-round selection, which adds an extra layer of intrigue for this year. Currently, the Texans hold the 25th pick, a position they have never been in before.
There has always been value in the 25th pick. For example, just a year ago, the Green Bay Packers selected Jordan Morgan. There have been other instances when the 25th selection made a significant impact.
Remember the 2010 NFL Draft in Denver? That’s when they controversially selected Tim Tebow, creating shockwaves throughout the event. Santonio Holmes was picked 25th by the Steelers and went on to become a Super Bowl MVP.
Other teams have staked their futures on that position. Just ask Washington fans how many chances they gave quarterback Jason Campbell. Currently, AFC South rival Jacksonville is still hoping that Travis Etienne can develop into the consistent performer they anticipated when they drafted him 25th overall in 2021.
The Texans have had some standout players selected in the late 20s throughout their history. Duane Brown was picked 26th overall in 2008, and Whitney Mercilus was selected 26th in 2012. DeAndre Hopkins went 27th in 2013. There will be plenty of value available when the Texans are officially on the clock.
The key question is whether they will remain at the 25th pick, possibly packaging Laremy Tunsil, who is entering the final year of his contract, to improve their position or acquire additional draft assets. One thing is certain: GM Nick Caserio is not hesitant to make a deal.
