The Houston Texans are thinking of the postseason, but some fans are looking toward the 2025 NFL draft for their next hopeful franchise guard.
With Kenyon Green suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 9’s 21-13 loss against the New York Jets, it’s clear his time with the Texans has reached its end. Now, Houston must look for a long-term replacement in either free agency or the draft.
Interior offensive linemen usually fall in the draft, given their value compared to tackles. Barring a trade of four-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil, Houston should be content with its book ends. Either second-round pick Blake Fisher or veteran Tytus Howard should take over at right tackle in 2025.
Howard, who inked a three-year extension before the 2023 season, could also shift inside to guard, leaving a hole at right guard in place of the struggling Shaq Mason. Houston could part ways with the veteran lineman since he’ll be paid up on all his guaranteed money from the extension signed in 2023.
If the Texans target a lineman in the draft, defensive tackle, safety and receiver could all be options in the first round.
Here’s a look at where the Texans are listed and after the Week 9 loss and the full draft order projection from Talkathon:
- Round 1, No. 25 overall
- Round 2, No. 57 overall
- Round 3, No. 89 overall
- Round 4, No. 126 overall
- Round 5, No. 166 overall (via BUF)
- Round 7, No. 240 overall
All those numbers could improve if the Texans can respond on Sunday Night Football against the Detroit Lions later this week. Houston remains the favorite to win the AFC South and could be in line for the No. 2 if they finish with the same record as the Buffalo Bills or Baltimore Ravens, given their head-to-head wins.
Houston should look better on offense with the return of receiver Nico Collins, who is expected to be elevated off the injured reserve this week. The Texans will be without Stefon Diggs, however, after his torn ACL suffered in Week 8’s win over the Colts.
Kickoff from NRG Stadium is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. CT.