As the Houston Texans complete their rebuild under general manager Nick Caserio, the philosophy is to add players who can provide competition and love football. As was proven in the 2021 NFL draft, Caserio may package picks to get the guys wants, even if it means Houston walks away with a five-man draft class.
One player the Texans should have on their radar is offensive lineman Alex Akingbulu.
Jacob Infante from the Draft Wire had a chance to talk with Akingbulu, and the former Fresno State product revealed what he can bring to an NFL team.
One thing I can say is, I know now with all the maturity that I have, leadership roles do not necessarily have to come with age. I can bet on me being a vocal leader in any aspect of the team, just coming in and being humble, ready and hungry to learn and work. I’m always trying to better my game and just being taken under anybody’s wing, just pretty much hungry and ready to do anything and set my role. I can play either side and pretty much any position on the line, as well. [I bring] versatility and being able to be hungry.
Akingbulu also stated he watches copious amounts of tape of San Francisco 49ers left tackle Trent Williams.
Houston had a difficult time at their bookend positions in 2021. Tytus Howard was splitting time at left guard before being kicked out to left tackle. Laremy Tunsil only played five games. The Texans had to rely on Charlie Heck, Geron Christian, Cole Toner, and Jordan Steckler to get through the season.
The rest of the draft process will reveal where Akingbulu ultimately ends up. According to Luke Easterling’s latest mock draft, Akingbulu doesn’t even appear in the first two days of the draft, rendering him a day three pick.
Assistant directors of player personnel James Liipfert and Matt Bazirgan proved in last year’s draft they can find valuable picks on day three. Enter sixth-round defensive tackle Roy Lopez from Arizona. Akingbulu will have to prove he is of that caliber throughout the spring.