Tag: Houston Texans defense

TeX’s and O’s: Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry is Houston’s dream draft trade

If the Houston Texans were to make a trade back into the first round, Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry might be the asking price.

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio put it bluntly when asked about the roster heading into Thursday’s NFL draft.

“We feel as we sit here today if we had to go out there and play a game, we would be able to put a team out there and not have to rely on the draft necessarily to add player,” the veteran GM said last week.

For a team as talented as the Texans, the draft is a boost, but not necessarily a need when it comes to adding talent. The former became especially evident after Caserio decided to ship Houston’s first-round pick (No. 23) to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for two second-round selections, including pick No. 42.

After hitting on prospects in consecutive drafts, along with adding a star-studded cast in free agency this offseason, the Texans feel unlikely to find a high-level, immediate contributor in the draft beginning Thursday night. Unless, of course, Caserio can’t help himself and trades up. He even mentioned the possibility at that same press conference,

“We have nine picks, as of Thursday night,” Caserio said. “We’ll see if that changes or stays static. Given our history, it will probably change at some point”

The Texans have aggressively traded up in the past two seasons for coveted prospects, including Will Anderson Jr., Tank Dell, Juice Scruggs, and Christian Harris. If Caserio wants to continue his annual draft tradition and ensure that Houston has an opportunity to find that immediate contributor for a Super Bowl run, he had to know now which player is worth the price.

University of Alabama cornerback Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry feels like the safest bet for that title.

McKinstry, a 5-star recruit out of high school, started three years for the Crimson Tide under legendary head coach Nick Saban. This past season, the junior totaled 32 total tackles and seven passes defended. The year prior, he finished with  35 tackles and an SEC-leading 15 pass breakups.

McKinstry was solid, if unspectacular, at the NFL combine with a 4.47 40-yard dash and an overall “Relative Athletic Score” of 7.55 at his position. Along with a slight dip in production, plus an uncompelling athletic profile, McKinstry’s draft status remains uncertain behind prospects like Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell and Alabama teammate Terrion Arnold.

If he were to suffer a draft day slide, the film suggests that Caserio should not hesitate to pull the trigger and move up to select the Alabama defender.

To begin, McKinstry is as good as it gets in the class in man coverage. He’s excellent in press at using his hands to disrupt receivers’ routes and he has the requisite speed to keep pace with nearly any player on the field.

Texas receiver Xavier Worthy may have broken the NFL combine’s 40-yard dash record at 4.21 seconds, but he could run away from McKinstry after a muddied release.

McKinstry’s athletic profile and hand usage are even further complimented by his awareness. His ability to read the quarterback not only allows him to make plays on the football but also transition downfield as needed. He is an exceptionally high-IQ football player with a great awareness and understanding of what is happening on the field.

This played out how one could only imagine within the season. Last fall, McKinstry logged 122 coverage snaps that qualified as man coverage and allowed just three receptions.

Although better at man coverage, McKinstry’s awareness and overall athleticism translate to adequate play when asked to line up in zone formations. He’s able to punish opposing quarterbacks by telegraphing their decisions and has exceptional closing speed against receivers in space.

In the play above, McKinstry shows how quickly can maneuver within his assignment to close the gap against receivers. It also shows his attentiveness to monitoring the running back after Worthy is motioned away from the line.

Against the run, McKinstry could help with the “SWARM.” He’s a willing tackler and capable of bringing down more physical backs in space when tasked to do so.

This play below against Michigan’s Blake Corum is exemplary of what McKinstry’s play style against the run.

There’s no such thing as a perfect player, and McKinstry comes with his flaws.

In Week 2’s loss against Texas, there were multiple high points and a slew of low moments. Against Worth, McKinstry looked exceptional.

Against fellow Longhorns draft prospect Adonai Mitchell, there was much to be desired. He’s notably a different player when tasked to play man coverage or press compared to off-ball zone schemes.

Teams must be patient if asked to translate over to the latter in most designs, though he should be an upgrade in man formations.

While his willingness has been praised by coaches and teammates, McKinstry’s run defense is a default setting and often plays more like a safety net. He’s content watching runs play out from afar, only willing to lay into the runner as the last line of defense.

That’s not necessarily negative. Corners are often regarded for their coverage ability, and McKinstry shines there. Fans, however, shouldn’t expect to see him make plays against screens or highlight tackles like Arnold or Michigan defensive back Mike Sainristil.

These concerns, notably, would factor well into the Texans’ current infrastructure.

Texans coach DeMeco Ryans seems to be signaling the team will play more man coverage this year, as evidenced by the signings of free agent cornerbacks Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson. It’s even more believable when considering the emergence of Derek Stingley Jr. as a lock-down, traveling cornerback last year.

McKinstry could ideally slide to a man-heavy scheme and thrive. Having another cornerback who stands out when asked to play in man coverage would allow Houston to lean fully into Stingley’s traveling persona.

It also would cover up some deficiencies that plagued the roster at times from the linebacker spot.

Houston doesn’t necessarily need McKinstry to be an elite tackler flying downhill against the run. They have a strong defensive that can control the gaps, thus opening up lanes for linebackers Christian Harris and Azeez Al-Shaair.

Trusting McKinstry as a last resort seems manageable after three seasons in the SEC. And should Stingley miss a game or two, McKinstry should keep the secondary afloat in coverage.

McKinstry’s regarded as a Day 1 prospect, so it would likely have to take a draft day tumble for him to land in a Battle Red or new H-Town Blue uniform next season. Even then, Caserio would have to be willing to part ways with draft compensation to move up for his services.

If there’s any prospect Houston should be willing to compromise for, McKinstry checks every box. Now, he just has to check the range.

TeX’s and O’s: Georgia Safety Javon Bullard could bring physicality to secondary

The Houston Texans could be in the market for a safety this draft cycle, and Georgia’s Javon Bullard fits the bill.

The Houston Texans are ready to contend.

Coming off an 11-8 campaign, general manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans have had a spectacular start to the off-season and have brought in players with Super Bowl optimism.

Wide receiver Stefon Diggs, edge rusher Danielle Hunter, running back Joe Mixon, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair and defensive tackle Denico Autry headline a group that’s propelled the Texans into five-five odds. The team appears ready to compete with one large caveat

Is the defensive secondary ready?

The current projected starting safety duo was hit-and-miss throughout the division-winning campaign. Veteran Jimmie Ward missed multiple games due to injury, ending the year on the reserve list. Jalen Pitre regressed from his breakout rookie campaign, especially in man coverage.

Houston may be ready to run ample man coverage looks with star corner Derek Stingley Jr. and newcomers Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson, but they’ll need a constant security net over the top if expecting better results.

Safety has been on the mind of Caserio. Three have visited NRG Stadium this past month, including Georgia’s Javon Bullard, perhaps the best fit for Ryans’ man-heavy scheme.

Bullard, a two-year starter for the Bulldogs, often was tasked with high-leverage roles under Kirby Smart’s man-based unit. He had 56 tackles, seven passes breakups and two interceptions last season in Athens. He also was named the Nation Championship game’s MVP during the team’s title run in 2022.

His pre-draft run has been equally impressive. Bullard was named the top safety of the Reeses’ Senior Bowl practices and impressed NFL teams throughout the week in Mobile, Ala.

Additionally, he had a strong performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran a 4.47 40-yard dash and tied together a strong 8.24 “Relative Athletic Score.”

It should come as no surprise that Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke are interested in potentially seeing the Bulldog product supplemented to the ‘SWARM’ persona. The film shows an instinctive player in coverage who isn’t afraid to crash violently and support the run.

The FIT

Bullard is comfortable playing on the back end, reading out plays, and positioning himself well when asked to defend the run and on passing concepts. He may start the following play farther off the line of scrimmage than any of his fellow defenders, but Bullard is quick to see it and react.

 

These instincts allowed Bullard to be a plus player in the run game and he was a reliable tackler if running backs managed to get past Georgia’s formidable front seven.

That same ability to trigger downhill also allows Bullard to make highlight plays on the football. He had four interceptions in his final two seasons with Georgia. That can largely be attributed to how he dissects plays.

Defensive backs coach Dino Vasso should love the attentiveness and pursuit angles Bullard presents downfield, but also the physicality when asked to guard receivers.

This play against Florida shows Bullard at his best. The safety reads the quarterback early, flies downhill to the developing slant route, and crushes the receiver to prevent a first down. The ability to recognize passing concepts and punish targets will be one of Bullard’s best assets at the NFL level.

The CONCERN

While a promising player, Bullard’s not a finished product. He tends to launch at plays he recognizes, which can also leave him in poor position should he misread the coverage.

Earlier in that same contest against Florida, a similar concept was drawn up. Instead of making a highlight tackle, Bullard took a bad angle in coverage, leading to a Gators’ touchdown.

In terms of character, Bullard isn’t a slouch. In The Athletics’ draft analyst Dane Brugler’s “The Beast,” he found glowing commentary on the safety including that, “High school and college coaches agree that he has a future in coaching, because of his mental toughness” and that he was “Regarded as one of the team leaders in the Georgia locker room.”

Bullard is a motivated player and a good athlete tasked with handling free safety responsibilities as the last line of defense for a proven championship-caliber program. His football IQ and attentiveness for sniffing out plays suggest he’s someone well-prepared to play at the next level.

THE ROLE

In Ryans’ defense, Bullard could plug in immediately next to Ward or Pitre and serve as a reliable coverage safety who brings a new element of physicality to any secondary.

Additionally, his presence could allow Pitre to play closer to the box on running downs and potentially create a better role for the third-year Baylor product. Pitre, a former second-round pick, won Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year while lined up in the STAR position under a similar defensive formation.

Bullard is a very realistic draft target for Houston during the 2nd round, either at pick No. 42 or pick No. 59. It would be far-fetched to imagine Bullard falling out of the second round, let alone to Houston at pick No. 86 midway through Round 3.

Whether Caserio and Ryans believe he could require a trade up, or are content to wait for him where they currently sit, is yet to be seen.

What’s certain is that Bullard could bring a sense of dependability and physicality that Houston desperately needs for its Super Bowl chase.

TeX’s and O’s: T’Vondre Sweat could reach new heights with Texans

Texas Longhorns star T’Vondre Sweat might be the biggest player and bigger boom-or-bust prospect the Houston Texans could target.

For a team that preached the importance of the trenches, the Houston Texans’ strategy at the defensive tackle has been puzzling for some.

The AFC South winners lost Sheldon Rankins to the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency and traded away fellow starter Maliek Collins to the San Francisco 49ers. In return, they signed Folorunso Fatukasi after a high-profile free agent stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars, alongside career backups such as Tim Settle from the Buffalo Bills and Mario Edwards Jr from the Seattle Seahawks.

Houston added power up the middle when it signed Tennesee Titans’ star Danico Autry but the 33-year-old represents much more of an interior edge rusher than a true three-down defensive tackle.

Houston still could target one of the top defensive linemen in April’s draft, but its pickings could also be minimal when on the clock at No. 42. Illinois’ Johnny Newton and Texas’ Byron Murphy were prime options at pick No. 23, but the Texans shipped off their Day 1 pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange to move back 19 spots and a 2025 second-round pick.

That pick was used to acquire Stefon Diggs from Buffalo Wednesday morning, thus making Houston’s path to the draft much more clear.

Houston should feel content with the line entering OTAs, but there’s not there’s not a clear “upgrade” path to the trenches for head coach DeMeco Ryans. Even with promising upside, the Day 2 talents are going to take time adjusting from life on Saturdays to life in the pros.

There are, however, some intriguing options in the second round that could booster what appears to be a position the Texans will attack as a collective, including former Longhorn standout T’Vondre Sweat.

Sweat Stands Out In Run Defense

Sweat was debatably the most high-profile defensive tackle in college football this past season at a monstrous 365 lbs. He played five seasons on the Forty Acres and ended 2023 on an incredibly high note, earning consensus All-American honors and first-team All-Big 12 player honors.

Sweat was also named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, and won the Outland Trophy as the nation’s best interior defensive lineman.

In 15 games, the Huntsville native totaled 45 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, and a pair of sacks while wielding his immense strength and size to anchor the Longhorns against the run and help propel the defense to the College Football Playoff.

When there’s smoke, a fire is not far behind. Rumors have been heating up between the two sides ever since the start of the offseason, and they’re about to set Twitter ablaze with three weeks to go.

Houston has an obvious need for the position in place of Collins. Sweat is one of the more well-rounded trench prospects projected to go outside the first round.

Ok, so what’s the debate? What doesn’t Nick Caserio run in the card and never look back at No. 42?

Ryans simply has never deployed a defensive tackle of Sweat’s size.  During his time as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator, he vastly preferred smaller and quicker defensive linemen, capable of getting upfield to push the pocket on passing downs and additionally playing a higher volume of snaps to supplement the ferocious, attacking nature.

How could the largest defensive tackle in years fit that profile? Despite the awkward optics, the film doesn’t raise as many questions. Sweat proved he’s someone that could not only immediately contribute to how Ryans wants the Texans to play defense, but also someone who could become more at the next level.

Immediately, Sweat would represent an upper-tier run stopper at the defensive tackle position as a rookie. His mass allows him to engage multiple blockers and makes it difficult for offensive lines to move him off his spot. Sweat is additionally strong enough to work through double teams and make plays on the ball carrier even when accounted for. More often than not, teams simply chose to run in the other direction.

His effect on the game goes beyond the sheer strength and size that’s bundled underneath the uniform. Sweat is surprisingly adept at using his hands to win 1-on-1 situations with offensive linemen and he took advantage of players who weren’t prepared for both the physical and technical level required to stay in front of him.

Often billed as an elite run-stuffer, and fairly so, Sweat still brings some surprising chops to the passing game.

His strength translates to incredible bull rushes that force offensive tackles and guards alike backward. Sweat would immediately be able to contribute towards collapsing the pocket and is a handful when offensive linemen can do nothing but work backward against him. His strong hands also contribute to some surprising sacks on film.

“I’m a better pass rusher than people give me credit for. I can push the pocket,” Sweat recently said in an interview with The Draft Network That’s what a lot of coaches look for at the next level, somebody that can push the pocket,” Sweat told The Draft Network. “If the quarterback doesn’t have enough room to step up into the middle of the pocket, what’s he going to do when he’s under pressure? That puts the passer in a tough spot. I love pushing that pocket. Coaches love it when I do that.”

Collapsing the pocket and the strength he has to do it is evident everywhere on film. Even on the edge, watch Sweat walk back Alabama’s left tackle and nearly lay a hand on the quarterback.

His strength translates to any assignment when rushing the passer.

Talent Transition To Pros

So yes, it’s fair for fans to ask at his profile. How Sweat will adjust to the NFL game and how many snaps he’ll be able to effectively play at a staggering size is a huge part of his draft projection. Additionally, how effectively his pass rush game translates when linemen are stronger and better prepared to deal with his size could mean Sweat needs additional tools to succeed on 3rd downs at the NFL level.

Where would this project Sweat if he dropped into Houston’s current brand?

He could start immediately as the 1-technique defensive tackle and would represent an enormous challenge for opposing centers and guards. The defense still needs someone to anchor at that position on run-downs and Sweat would immediately serve that role. He would change the dynamics of the run game and the attention he demands would open up favorable scenarios for the Texans’ newest linebacker duo in Christian Harris and Azeez Al-Shaiir.

In the passing game, Ryans has often preferred smaller defensive linemen due to their ability to quickly get upfield and affect the dynamics of the- passing game. Due to Sweat’s strength and technical work, he isn’t prohibited from affecting the passer at his size. He would help to collapse the pocket and is a disaster waiting to happen for guards that needs to account for him on stunts and switches when Danielle Hunter or NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson are flying in from the edge.

He may not be transformative in the passing game, but even at his current level, he offers a phenomenal fit in the context of Houston’s incredible defensive infrastructure. This doesn’t even address the fact that there may be another level to Sweat as a professional.

Best Case-Scenario?

What happens if Sweat can play more than 50% of the snaps as an NFL tackle? What if he drops some of the weight that he’s gained during his last two seasons of college but still represents a sizable mass in the 330-340lb range? That’s when outcomes could become special.

A lighter weight could allow Sweat to play far closer to the defensive tackles historically deployed by Ryans in San Francisco and last year in Houston. It would certainly elevate his ability to quickly fly to the quarterback and likely would come without sacrificing much, if any, of his impact on the running game. Still, there’s little need to dwell on hypotheticals when such a clear skillset is already apparent to evaluators.

Even without a first-round pick, there is a lot to love about the potential for Caserio to attack the position in the second round with the homegrown Sweat.

He would bring an elite run-stopping skillset to the 1-tech defensive tackle position and could represent a huge problem when left 1-on-1 or employed as the decoy on stunts for passing downs. Whether the Texans would truly gamble on a different archetype on tackle is yet to be seen.

The potential is undeniable. So is the risk-reward factor in an offseason where the Texans are gambling big.

TeX’s and O’s: Edgerrin Cooper could buffer Texans in AFC South arms race

Don’t rule out star Texas A&M LB Edgerrin Cooper for the Texans later this month.

The Houston Texans are without a first-round pick.

Ever since general manager Nick Caserio pulled the trigger on a trade that sent the 23rd overall pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for the 42nd overall pick and a second round pick next year, the Texans draft discourse has been in disarray.

Originally, Houston seemed very well positioned to attack their biggest needs in the first round. They were perfectly slotted to take either the first or second defensive tackle off the board, one of the elite cornerback prospects, or even benefit from one of the best wide receiver classes in recent memory.

Now, still armored with two picks in the second round but without a clear path to top talent, the Texans’ draft strategy is murkier. There are a variety of strong players that they could look to add on Day 2 of the draft, but none of them are as clear a fit from either a position perspective or a talent perspective as names that were mentioned around 23rd overall.

One of the new names is Texas A&M linebacker Edgerrin Cooper.

Cooper, the consensus All-American and First-Team All-SEC player, has a Top 30 visit scheduled with the Texans and also saw heavy interest during the Aggies pro day, with Caserio himself in attendance to watch who many consider the draft’s top linebacker.

The 6-foot-2, 230-pound linebacker had 84 total tackles with 17 tackles for loss and 8.0 sacks during his senior year with the Aggies. Cooper, a great athlete, further solidified his draft status when he ran a 4.51 40-yard dash and measured with 34-inch arms during the NFL Combine. Explosive, lengthy and productive in college football’s best conference.

It should be no surprise that Texans head coach and former linebacker DeMeco Ryans might be interested in the local Texas product.

The team’s interest has still perplexed some fans. The Texans have breakout second year linebacker Christian Harris on the roster, as well as priority free addition Azeez Al-Shaiir from the Tennessee Titans. In a league where ‘nickel’ defense (two linebackers, five defensive backs) is the primary package, would it really be prudent to invest a high pick in someone who may not see all the snaps?

Although it may not be the strongest value play, the tape suggests that Cooper is someone who could help transform Houston’s defense and may represent the natural evolution of how Ryans wants to play football.

Cooper was the twitchiest athlete on the field at Texas A&M and nowhere did that better show up than how he plays the run. He trusts his eyes and commits once he’s read out the play. This allows his excellent athleticism to trigger and make excellent plays on the football.

Against Alabama, Cooper’s skills were on display against a team that loves to run and a quarterback who represents a serious threat on the ground. This play is a great example of Cooper reading the option play, correctly diagnosing that Jalen Milroe kept the football, and committing to make a tackle for loss.

Whether it’s against a quarterback or navigating traffic in the box to stuff the running back, his skills against the run show up time and time again. Notably, especially for tackling big backs, Cooper is a violent and disciplined tackler. He rarely misses available plays and his long arms make it difficult for offensive players to escape once they’re within his grasp. It’s also a punishing experience for whoever has the unfortunate privilege of taking the tackle.

That same twitchiness and athleticism becomes an additional asset on passing downs, particularly against quarterbacks that can move.

Cooper is more than capable of running down great athletes at the quarterback position and his ability to both commit early and take good angles can quickly eliminate running lanes for passers that might believe they have an easy first down available on the ground.

Factor in his ability to blitz, as evidenced by his eight sacks on the season, and a fascinating player is available to be selected.

This is a linebacker that is capable of lining up on the line of scrimmage to show a ‘simulated pressure’ and equally capable of doing three things. He can use his strength and athleticism to blitz the quarterback, he can drop back into coverage and change the passing equation or he can simply stay home and spy the quarterback. It’s a headache for opposing passers to diagnose after the snap and a huge asset for defensive coaches.

He’s not a perfect prospect. There are times where his eagerness to make a play and quick commitment can leave him out of position to play the run. Cooper is also not someone who, when blitzing, you would task to take on an offensive lineman 1-on-1 at this point in time, rather the blitzes would likely need to be built within the scheme.

Where does that leave him for the Texans?

If drafted in the second round, Cooper is a player who could develop into an every down middle linebacker for Ryan’s defense. As a rookie, he could immediately contribute on passing downs and gradually take more and more passing responsibility from Al-Shaiir during obvious passing situations as he becomes more ready.

In San Francisco, Ryans was able to run 4-3-4 on 27% of their defensive plays. With the Texans in his first year, that value was just 18.7%. It is not difficult to imagine that Ryans might return to playing more defense with three linebackers on the field with better personnel.

Similar to Harris, Cooper’s athleticism is a legitimate asset on passing downs and the team would be less vulnerable than they were last year when playing their base 4-3 defense. Cooper could either play the middle linebacker position or start at the strong side while he figures out the responsibilities of the defense.

Beyond his fit on the team, his fit against an evolving landscape in the AFC may be even more compelling.

Last year, the Texans defense struggled the most against mobile quarterbacks such as Lamar Jackson and Anthony Richardson. Notably, those two players represent important hurdles. Houston will have to work past Richardson and the Indianapolis Colts if they want to continue to win the AFC South. They’ll have to find a way to beat Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens if they ever want to go to the Super Bowl.

That’s before you mention other stars such as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Justin Herbert who are also more than capable of scrambling to move the chains.

Even during Week 18, the Texans nearly missed the playoffs because of their inability to stop Indianapolis on the ground. Running back Jonathan Taylor had a dominant day and the task would have been even more difficult if Richardson had been under center. They were bailed out by Gardner Minshew, but they can’t count on that again.

Drafting Cooper with their first pick at 42nd overall would signal that the Texans refuse to be run on. They would upgrade their ability to play the run at the second level from their linebackers and also create a defense that is more comfortable living in base (three linebackers) when they can, rather than constantly needing to play nickel because of how porous their linebackers were in coverage last year.

The Texans would also give themselves an avenue to finding their middle linebacker of the future and have a prospect that Ryans could develop into his next Fred Warner, a player who defined his dominant defenses with the San Francisco 49ers.

It may not be the biggest need for Houston, but it certainly would not be a redundant choice for the Texans. Don’t rule out the star linebacker when the NFL Draft comes later this month.

TeX’s and O’s: Texans gamble on coaching and upside at cornerback

The Texans have forged ahead with a new vision for DeMeco Ryans’ defense, most notably at cornerback.

It’s an unconventional strategy.

Many NFL teams who overachieve are prone to double down on their recipe for the following season. It’s hard to stray away from the formula that brought unexpected success and instead go onto a different and unknown path. The New York Giants are a notable example with their massive extension to quarterback Daniel Jones that, despite evidence it may not be the wisest idea, felt necessary after they made the playoffs in 2022.

The Houston Texans have done the exact opposite. Instead of doubling down and re-signing key players, they’ve forged ahead with a new vision for head coach DeMeco Ryans’ defense despite a strong finish at 10-7 and a playoff victory in his debut season. The team appears willing to take risks for a Super Bowl run rather than merely sit content with their 2023 success.

Nowhere is that more evident than at cornerback.

Steven Nelson had an incredible 2023 season as the Texans’ starting cornerback across from sophomore breakout star Derek Stingley Jr. He started 16 games and had a career-high four interceptions, five including his incredible postseason pick-six of Cleveland Browns’ quarterback Joe Flacco in the wild-card round. Nelson provided consistent, above-average cornerback play and was admirable in filling in during Stingley’s mid-season absence.

Rather than bring back that known commodity, Houston opted to go in a different direction. Nelson would have been one of the more expensive free agent cornerback signings and also represents a potential declining asset who is 31. Instead, they took two apparent dart throws at the position.

The Texans signed Atlanta Falcons free agent cornerback Jeff Okudah during the first week of free agency and Carolina Panthers free agent cornerback C.J. Henderson the week after. Those two players were, coincidentally, the first two cornerbacks drafted in the 2020 NFL draft at Nos. 3 and 9 overall, respectively.

Neither of the former top-10 picks lived up to their billing so far, though. Okudah has only two career interceptions and 13 passes defended in just 31 career starts between the Detroit Lions and the Falcons. Henderson has three interceptions and 16 passes defended in 32 starts of his own between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Panthers. Both have played for multiple coordinators, struggled to stay healthy and ultimately have been unable to provide consistent play at the NFL level.

That doesn’t scare Ryans and the Texans.

Before he was drafted, NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein wrote the following of Okudah:

Head coach and general manager’s dream prospect with blue-chip physical traits, mental makeup and personal character. He has size, length and foot quickness to road-block press release and elite closing burst to close catch windows or eliminate yards after catch”. His sentiment was eerily similar for Henderson, described as a “silky smooth boundary cornerback with mirror-and-match footwork and the agility and athleticism to stay connected to routes. He has NFL recovery burst and the long speed to track vertical routes downfield.

After a season that saw Texans defenders such as Nelson, Jonathan Greenard, Blake Cashman, Christian Harris and Sheldon Rankins play some of the best football of their careers, Houston is ready to bet on themselves again. How they’ve coveted these high football trait players is a testament to how this coaching staff likely views themselves and what they believe the environment in Houston can generate.

Okudah and Henderson’s traits are evident on film. It’s believable that a staff that saw such enormous success in Year 1 may also believe they can be the first to wield these players consistently.

Okudah is a great player in man coverage and his size and speed combination is a tough draw for opposing wide receivers when he’s allowed to play simple. He’s also shown the added ability to defend when the nickel when called upon. This play of Okudah shadowing 2023 first round receiver Jordan Addison stride-for-stride before extending for a great play on the football is a great example of what Houston’s staff will look for.

Henderson has also shown flashes on film, particularly during his first year in Carolina. When he was asked to play as a No. 2 cornerback next to Jaycee Horn, he put together a career best season in Steve Wilks’ defense. His closing speed to break on the football is evident and he reads plays exceptionally well as they develop.

Both players will likely be tasked to play plenty of man coverage and quarters coverage alongside Stingley. If Stingley travels with the best receiver, as he did at the end of 2023, this assignment becomes even more straightforward. Ryans will task these talented young cornerbacks to take care of the man in front of them and play to their instincts, all while rarely facing a huge mismatch.

The scheme not only empowers their athleticism to shine but the environment with Stingley and a formidable pass rush that includes Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter will shield defensive backs to an extent on passing downs.

These players also notably fit the Houston defensive mantra of SWARM.

This shows up on Henderson’s film quite a bit. His ability to quickly read plays translates well with his willingness to tackle and kill plays that bounce to the outside. Whether it was Nico Collins, Jaylen Waddle or Jameson Williams, Henderson showed an ability to react quickly and kill screen plays. That desire and overall willingness to contribute in tackling and run support matters. There’s a similar willingness shown in Okudah who, despite being billed as a premier athlete to cover receivers, is also willing to come downhill and crash on opposing running backs.

Once you consider these thoughts, the Texans’ moves that appear to be a gamble on the surface appear far more calculated.

Coach Ryans will task two demonstrably talented and athletic corners in Okudah (6’1″, 205lb) and Henderson (6’1″, 204lb) to battle for the starting cornerback job opposite of one of the league’s premier corners. The scheme will encourage both to play fluid, fast, and take advantage of the talents that had them drafted so highly in the first place. While Stingley travels with the top receiver and the pass rush generates favorable looks, either player will be incredibly well positioned to have the best season of their career in 2024, if they can stay healthy.

Essentially, a very similar premise to the eco-system that saw great athletes like Greenard and Cashman earn huge paydays this past season. Great athletes, in good environments, are empowered to do what they do best.

While the Texans look to leap towards Super Bowl contention, these types of moves are necessary. They can’t field a team of All-Stars at every position and betting on surroundings and development will be required to maximize the roster. Surplus value has to be found and it appears the place they’ll expect it is cornerback.

Betting on DeMeco Ryans and his star-studded surrounding roster on defense, and once considered top-tier talent at the position is an avenue for general manager Nick Caserio to find just that. Fans will have to wait for training camp to see how the moves pay off.

TeX’s and O’s: Christian Wilkins would bring disruptive force to Texans’ interior

In our first iteration of “TeXs and Os,” a look at what Christian Wilkins would look like on the Houston Texans defensive line.

The interest has been brewing.

Ever since the Miami Dolphins chose not to franchise their star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, his interest with the Houston Texans has been well noted. ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler was first to report that Houston was a team to watch and then local reporter Aaron Wilson of KPRC later repeated that same sentiment.

It makes sense. Head coach DeMeco Ryans’ attacking 4-3 front would be a perfect fit for Wilkins and he’s the type of presence the team currently lacks. NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year winner Will Anderson Jr. looks like he could become a premier edge player, but outside of that, the defensive line is unclear. Edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is coming off a career season with 12.5 sacks and is an unrestricted free agent. Defensive tackle Maliek Collins is a solid, but unspectacular starter and his running mate Sheldon Rankins is also set to hit free agency.

Ryans preached that he wanted to improve the quality of the Front 7 after the team’s 34-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens and Wilkins could play a huge part in doing just that if Houston was to splurge.

Since he was drafted in 2019, Wilkins has been one of the premier defensive tackles in the NFL. He has had at least 10 tackles for loss in each of the past three seasons and broke out in a huge way in the pass rushing department in 2023 with nine sacks.

He was one of Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded defensive tackles each of the past three years and has never had a rushing defense grade below 70 since 2019. His pass rush grade has also been over 70 since 2021 and peaked with a grade of 72.8 this past season.

It’s the perfect time for him to hit the market. The NFL more than ever values defensive lineman that can rush the passer and, in addition to his nine sacks, Wilkins generated 61 quarterback pressures per NextGen Stats in 2023. Not to mention his additional 26 quarterback hits.

What exactly does he bring to the Houston Texans that would encourage general manager Nick Caserio to engage in his first huge bidding war as general manager of the team?

The conversation likely begins with his availability. Wilkins played 80% of the Miami Dolphins’ defensive snaps in 2023 and represents a player that is capable of playing both the 1-technique and 3-technique defensive tackle spots in Ryans’ system. He would never need to come off the field and could be used interchangeably with multiple other players on the defensive line.

For a defense that preaches the importance of stopping the run, Wilkins more than satisfies that demand. He’s capable of occupying multiple blockers in the gap but also making explosive plays up-field to kill plays. His high motor also shows up on film chasing runs to the outside and making exceptional plays that are often not expected for players as large as Wilkins at defensive tackle.

This play against the New England Patriots stands out as representative. Wilkins not only starts out the play double-teamed — which frees up space for other defenders to attack the run — but he’s also able to come off the double team and chase the run to the outside. It’s the kind of athleticism and effort that every defensive coach covets.

That’s before you even discuss his ability to rush the quarterback.

Wilkins has improved every season rushing the passer as evidenced by both his statistics and PFF grades. It is also evident on film. He has good power to attack opposing guards and centers with ample athleticism to be used more creatively as well when called upon.

This stunt play is an excellent example of Wilkins using his athleticism to get to the quarterback. The opposing defensive tackle crashes the center and right guard leaving nobody to take Wilkins. He’s able to get to Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis before he has a chance to get rid of the ball. The Texans defense uses very similar concepts under Ryans and he would likely be tasked with assignments like this even more frequently.

Wilkins, in conjunction with a player like Anderson and any other pass rushers that Houston might add this offseason, would create headaches for offenses. It would be very difficult to allocate resources and call protections with two premier defensive linemen demanding attention. On the same side as Anderson, one of them would very likely see individual protection assignments. On stunts they both have the athleticism to torch offensive lineman and exploit protection rules.

In short, Wilkins effects every aspect of the defense. He is an every-down player that is impactful in both the rushing game and attacking the opposing quarterback. He would make life easier for linebackers to kill run plays and also open up pass rushing lanes for his teammates, all in addition to his own individual contributions.

This multi-level projected contribution for Wilkins makes paying him a little bit easier. The 28-year-old will likely demand the largest contract on the free agent market and will be paid even more after recent extensions for defensive tackles Justin Madubuike and Chris Jones from Baltimore and Kansas City respectively. As the league recognizes the impact of defensive tackle play, there will be very competitive bidding wars to secure that.

Still, when Houston spent the past two years clearing cap space after the blunders of the previous management under former general manager Bill O’Brien, this is the type of situation you dream of as a team-builder. Adding Wilkins represents a perfect fit from both a personnel and player perspective.

If the Texans want to take another step forward and their desire to swarm on defense, there should be no hesitation to take a swing on the defensive tackle.

TeX’s and Os: Could free agent C.J. Gardner-Johnson solve Texans safety woes?

The Houston Texans might have a safety problem, but free agent C.J. Gardner-Johnson could be the answer in the secondary.

The Houston Texans need help in the secondary.

DeMeco Ryan’s defense ranked in the bottom 10 in passing yards allowed and passing yards per attempt in 2023. It was a disappointing effort after many thought that Houston’s safeties, led by safety duo Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward, could be the strength of the defense going into the year.

It isn’t a mess entirely. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. broke out in a big way with five interceptions and the team has multiple options to play across from him in 2024. That includes re-signing Steven Nelson or bringing in a veteran free agent like Xavien Howard.

It’s the safety dilemma that stands out.

Ward played in only 10 games and was not a reliable option to be on the field. Pitre went through a severe sophomore slump and didn’t force a turnover in 2023. Ryans even benched Pitre during the team’s brutal Week 16 loss to the Cleveland Browns. It could not have gone much worse after the Baylor product’s incredible rookie year which featured 147 tackles and five interceptions in 2022.

Now, the Texans have to find a way forward. That could require finding at least one additional safety to play, whether that is in case Ward is injured again or to facilitate moving Pitre down towards the nickel cornerback position. Houston could even find two new safeties, which would allow the Texans to capitalize on nearly $5 million in cap savings if they cut Ward after just one year.

There ar multiple ways they could about tackling this. One such option on the free agency market that stands out as both a great talent and a strong value play for general manager Nick Caserio is Detroit Lions impending free agent safety C.J. Gardner Johnson.

The University of Florida product started just five games in the regular season for the Lions in 2023 due to a torn pectoral muscle. He did start in the playoffs, though, where he intercepted Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. But overall, it was a disappointing season for Gardner-Johnson after he was considered a key free agent signing.

In 2022, Gardner-Johnson had 67 total tackles and six interceptions while helping power the Philadelphia Eagles defense to the Super Bowl under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. He had been a value add via a trade with the New Orleans Saints earlier that year and bet on himself afterwards with the short one-year deal with Detroit.

Gardner-Johnson was highly rated by Pro Football Focus in 2023, with a defensive grade of 72.7 and a coverage grade of 72.8. His run support was also solid, with a grade of 68.5. These were minor upticks from his performance in Philadelphia and they could be attributed to smaller sample size, however it’s impossible to ignore the talent of the 26 year old.

Now, he’s a free agent again and the tape shows a player that could fit well with the Texans.

Gardner-Johnson is largely considered a “strong safety” as someone who is capable of both patrolling the back end or playing close to the line of scrimmage. Considering that potential overlap of that skillset with Jalen Pitre, it’s important to start with Johnson’s ability in coverage. He graded out very well in this aspect and it shows up on tape.

In the Lions’ Cover 4 heavy defense, similar to the Houston Texans this past year, Johnson frequently played deep to allow rookie Brian Branch to be closer to the line of scrimmage. He performed well in this aspect and those skills additionally show up when reviewing his 2022 time with the Philadelphia Eagles. He’s a ballhawking safety who can read the quarterback and explode to make plays.

Ryans preaches the importance of stopping the run and Gardner-Johnson is no stiff there. He has an ability to both come down to the box and support with blitzes as well as read out run plays from the high safety position and collapse. His vision and athleticism is apparent and he’s a rangy athlete who could be played all over the field.

In Houston, he would allow for very interchangeable coverage sets between himself and Ward. Both could be trusted with complex coverage assignments and the defensive staff would have the ability to rotate either safety with both being plus players and run support.

This idea of interchangeability could also be used with Pitre and changing where both those players are pre-snap, even switching between safety and nickel assignments to confuse opposing quarterbacks.

It’s unclear whether or not the Texans will actually be interested in Gardner-Johnson, but the fit makes sense. At 26 years old, he would be a young player for the Texans defense that could contribute in both phases of the game. He’s a reliable player in coverage that would free up the athletic Pitre to do what he does best closer to the line of scrimmage and have a strong third season. It would also create an additional chess piece for defensive coordinator Matt Burke to implement more disguised coverage schemes against the AFC’s best quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson.

In a league where coverage is suddenly at a premium., this could be a very affordable fix.

Report: Dolphins CB Xavien Howard has interest in joining Texans

It sounds like Xavien Howard is interested in joining the Texans, if he’s released by the Dolphins.

The Houston Texans have uncertainty at cornerback entering the 2024 offseason. Veteran Steven Nelson is not under contract after a career season, and it’s left a huge hole across from breakout sophomore Derek Stingley Jr.

Before the NFL free agency period has even started, one potential replacement has already made his interest known: Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard.

NFL.com’s Mike Garafolo reported Friday that Miami intends to release Howard. The former second-round pick is a four-time Pro Bowler and has led the NFL in interceptions twice, most recently in 2020 when he was a First-Team All-Pro. His play has dipped recently the past two seasons, and a major contract extension that he signed in 2022 has forced the Dolphins to move on from their former star as a cap casualty.

ESPN reporter DJ Bien-Aime shared Friday that Howard has expressed interest in joining the Texans, according to individuals close to him. Now, it’s up to general manager Nick Caserio and the Texans veteran scouting department to decide if the interest is mutual.

Howard would be a very reasonable plug-and-play corner opposite of Stingley who might come at a discounted price after his recent season. However, it’s unclear whether or not he would be a true upgrade from Nelson at this point or if he would even be a cheaper option considering how his name and past performance could increase demands.

At this point, this is still speculation. Miami has still not determined when they will release Howard, with many expecting it to happen at the start of the new league year on March 13. Whenever he is released, he will be free to sign with Houston or whatever team is interested

For fans searching for big name editions and further talent infusion to DeMeco Ryan’s defense, Howard be a welcome addition. He likely won’t be the last name interested in the up-start franchise looking to take the next steps towards true Super Bowl contention.

15 Most Impactful Texans of 2023: No. 3 Will Anderson

Up next in our “15 Most Impactful Texans of 2023” series is Will Anderson, the Defensive Rookie of the Year.

The Houston Texans had an extremely successful 2023 campaign.

They cruised to a 10-7 record under new head coach DeMeco Ryans and captured several accolades along the way. They won the AFC South and won a playoff game for the first time since the 2019 season. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud won PFWA’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, rookie edge rusher Will Anderson won PFWA’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, and even Ryans took home hardware with PFWA’s Coach of the Year.

With a revamped team effort that led to dramatic improvements compared to both the 2021 and 2022 Texans, it’s worth examining who created that impact this past season and what their future projects moving forward.

This series has taken a look at defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, running back Devin Singletary, rookie receiver Tank Dell, and veteran tackle George Fant, and upstart linebacker Blake Cashman.

Entering the top 10, we took a closer look at cornerback Steven Nelson and linebacker Christian Harris, and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, franchise left tackle Laremy Tunsil, and budding shutdown cornerback Derek Stingley

Entering the top five, third year wideout Nico Collins received due praise for his breakout year alongside fourth year edge rusher Jonathan Greenard. Now, our attention turns to the trio of rookies that dominated for Houston — starting with Defensive Rookie of the Year, Will Anderson.

Frankie Luvu could be DeMeco Ryans’ dream linebacker

Could the Texans take a run at signing soon-to-be free agent linebacker Frankie Luvu?

Any discussion about the Houston Texans’ upcoming free agency discussion starts with the words that DeMeco Ryans left the media with to conclude his final press conference of the 2023 season.

“You have to invest the resources there up front, so that’s what we’ll do. That’s where our focus is heading into the offseason is to make sure our front gives us an opportunity to win some games.”

It should be no surprise the former linebacker has a personal focus on improving the Texans’ front seven. It was a huge part of their downfall against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Divisional Round and nearly cost them their playoff berth against the Indianapolis Colts during Week 18 when Jonathan Taylor exploded.

The defensive front includes the down defensive linemen but it also includes the linebackers. Much has been made of Houston’s potential investments in the front four, especially with the status of free agent Jonathan Greenard in limbo, but that discussion often misses the importance of the linebackers to this equation.

Houston isn’t exactly set there either.

Christian Harris had a breakout season in his second year with 104 tackles and two sacks, not to mention an incredible pick-six in the playoffs against the Cleveland Browns. He is considered a budding star at the position but who his running mates will be is uncertain. Veteran Blake Cashman had 104 tackles and Denzel Perryman had 76, with both players playing over 50% of Houston’s regular season snaps. However, both are free agents entering the off-season and it leaves a huge gap for Houston’s defense. It’s a logical question of who they’ll pair alongside Christian Harris to elevate the defense.

If general manager Nick Caserio and DeMeco Ryans want to put their money where their mouth is, there are some excellent options on the free agent market. Furthermore, the best fit may be found if they examine their loss in Charlotte, North Carolina this past season.

Linebacker Frankie Luvu was a nightmare for the Texans. He’s also about to hit the market.

After transitioning from an edge rusher role to a true inside linebacker after signing with the Carolina Panthers in 2021, Luvu’s career has exploded the past two years. Starring in a 4-3 scheme akin to Houston in 2022, Luvu had 111 total tackles, 7 sacks and 19 tackles for loss. This past year, even transitioning to a 3-4 scheme under Ejiro Evero and with the team struggling, Luvu still found his way to 125 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. He even wore the green dot while piloting the Panthers defense.

It’s ludicrous production for an inside linebacker and represents just the kind of versatility that Houston may be searching for

His coverage grade of 64.9 per PFF in 2023 was a career high and represents a huge upgrade from Perryman who ranked in at 46.0 and was frequently abused by defenses last season. However, he still represents the same level of run defense with a grade of 74.0 against the run and 90.1 when blitzing.

In a way, Luvu is a summation of the best parts of Perryman and Cashman. A run thumper that isn’t a liability in coverage – with the added dimension of attacking the quarterback.

His ability to blitz is something that neither player brought to the table in 2023, with that responsibility usually left to Christian Harris, and it could add a new dimension to the defense. Not only would Luvu need to be accounted for in protection schemes but it would also create a degree of difficulty as to when and from where Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke would bring heavier blitzes.

The fit would be natural next to Harris. He started 13 games last season at middle linebacker for the Carolina Panthers and would slide into that same role for Houston. It allows Ryans to keep Harris at the weakside linebacker spot and to continue to utilize Harris’s special athleticism at that position. Meanwhile, Luvu could even assume green dot responsibilities and would have the ability to spy, blitz, cover or crush the run while Harris is freed to be a star.

There’s one big question for Houston with this acquisition: What’s the cost?

Luvu is expected to command somewhere between $10-11M APY and it would represent a huge investment of the linebacker position. If the reason they move on from Cashman is due to cost, it would be hard to imagine they decide this is where they want to spend big dollars.

However, if Houston is as serious about improving their front seven as they’ve preached, this investment would easily be worth it. Luvu’s contributions to the running game, versatility with blitzes, and overall reliability in coverage would represent a next level investment alongside Harris.

It could give Houston one of the best linebacker duos in football.

Ryans was once himself a former all-pro at the linebacker position and it would be amazing to watch him deploy and create havoc with two players of this caliber. He’ll have to work alongside Caserio to decide what type of investment the team is willing to make if they want to put another star alongside No. 48.