The Texans were one of the busiest franchises this offseason as they signed a fair share of new players in free agency, handing out large contracts to several younger core members, replacing the elite left tackle Rami Tunsil.
As things stand, the offensive line continues to be one of the weakest positioning groups on the roster. After trading Tunsil, they added many new security guards, and the former Vikings and Jaguar left tackle Cam Robinson. No one really moves the needle, but Robinson is a good replacement for Tonsil in the short term.
So where will the Texans go with their first round pick? When looking at the Texans roster, the offensive line and the linebacker room inside are two positions that stand out most out in terms of needing help. The problem is that only one internal linebacker won his first round grade this year, and he is currently off the board. If the Texans want to find a new second-level defender in the draft, they will have to wait until the second day.
In that case, you will only have one actual position to choose here.
On the 24th pick for SB Nation Community Mock Draft, Kenneth Levy of Battle Red Blog has chosen Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. to retain highly regarded prospects in the Lone Star State.
24.) Houston Texans: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
Collection: It was too good to be true that Kelvin Banks Jr. is available at age 24. Banks was the three-year starter for Texas and was the anchor of the offensive line where all five starters could be drafted. His consistency, strength of play and footwork are elite in a class that lacks many true tackles. Analysts communicate the potential of a security guard, but his height, length, lack of thickness in his low body, and excellent footwork are at a disadvantage in his internal movements.
analysis: If the board falls like this before the Texans choose, they have to run the card with Banks’ name. I think this is a dream situation. I know the team signed to play a left tackle to Robinson, but the prospect of the bank not being taken here after an amazing fall is too good. The Texans also have a very cheap deal to veteran Trent Brown and could start with a right tackle and if he bouncing enough and staying healthy to play there, you have a wealth of body to find the best starting five. I think Banks’ skill set is best suited as a tackle, but if Houston decides he’s the best long-term fit with the team, he’s well equipped to be vigilant and grow there.
The remaining 5 players:
- James Pierce Jr. Edge, Tennessee
- Luther’s Burden, WR, Missouri
- Boston College, Edge, Donovan Ezellak
- Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio
- Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo
Big Blue View’s Ed Valentine and the Giants are back on the clock after backing up to the Vikings and the first round. After handing over Chedure Sanders early in the round, they still need a new quarterback. Is this a choice to secure a future for the franchise?
