2013 Mocks and Needs

[painekiller]

I know many of you hate to think about next years draft just a week after the current one. And I understand that. But I like to look the building of a roster, and the building of this team.

Also I like to give myself names to watch for this upcoming college season.

As for the Texans, this draft addressed most current needs very well. So what needs jump out at me.

IMO I want this team to become the Steelers, and that means you don't over pay for players, except for a few unique cases. We have a couple of important guys in the last years of their contracts. Matt Schaub, Duane Brown, Conner Barwin and Rashad Butler are all in contract years. In a perfect world they all have good years and need pay increases (after the 2012 season). I see Schaub and Brown as the only must sign guys. I can let Barwin and Butler walk if I like their backups. When is Cushing's contract year, is it this year? If so then he becomes a priority also.

Again this is very early and full of speculation, and I am making some leaps of faith. My needs for the 2013 draft are the following: OG, OLB, ILB, S, developmental QB, RB, developmental #1 WR.

Of course you cannot get this all in one draft, but you can try.

draftsite.com has a 3 round 2013 mock up, and they have use taking the following:

27 Luke Joeckel* OT Texas A&M 6' 6" 304
58 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
90 Adewale Ojomo DE Miami 6' 4" 253

If I resign Brown, I do not need Joeckel. I might look at this:

27 Jackson Jeffcoat* OLB Texas 6' 5" 250
58 Montee Ball RB Wisconsin 5' 11" 234 bye-bye Ben Tate? trade
90 Chris McDonald OG Michigan State 6-5 300

Some guys to watch this coming college season.

[painekiller]

Matt Barkley QB Southern California Sr 6-1 218
Landry Jones QB Oklahoma rSr 6-4 230
Tyler Wilson QB Arkansas rSr 6-3 220
Logan Thomas QB Virginia Tech Jr 6-5 254
Tyler Bray QB Tennessee Jr 6-6 210

Montee Ball RB Wisconsin Sr 5-09 212
Knile Davis RB Arkansas Sr 6-0 226
Marcus Lattimore RB South Carolina 5-11 233
Joseph Randle RB Oklahoma St. 6-0 191

Da'Rick Rogers WR Tennessee Jr 6-2 215
Robert Woods WR USC Jr 6-1 181

Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame Jr 6-6 249

James Hurst OT North Carolina Jr 6-6 313
Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M Jr 6-5 310
Morgan Moses OT Virginia Jr 6-5 335
Taylor Lewan OT Michigan Jr 6-7 305
Jake Matthews OT Texas A&M 6-5 305

Alex Okafor OLB/DE Texas Sr 6-4 260
Jackson Jeffcoat OLB/DE Texas Jr 6-5 253
Barkevious Mingo OLB LSU Jr 6-4 245
Corey Lemonier OLB Auburn Jr 6-3 242
Sam Montgomery OLB LSU Jr 6-4 245
William Gholston DE Michigan ST Jr 6-7 280

Kawann Short DT Purdue rSr 6-3 310
Star Lotulelei DT Utah Sr 6-3 325
Johnathan Hankins DT Ohio St Jr 6-3 335

Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame Sr 6-2 255 love this kid and we no shot at him
Kevin Reddick ILB North Carolina Sr 6-2 240
Chase Thomas ILB/ OLB Stanford rSr 6-4 240

T.J. McDonald FS Southern California Sr 6-2 205

Tyrann Mathieu CB LSU Jr 5-9 185
David Amerson CB NC St. Jr 6-3 194
Tharold Simon CB LSU Jr 6-3 188
Xavier Rhodes CB Florida St Jr 6-2 210
Carrington Byndom CB Texas Jr 6-0 181

[painekiller]

Walter Football has us doing the following:

29 Johnathan Banks, CB, Mississippi State
Kareem Jackson will have one more shot to be the starting cornerback across from Johnathan Joseph next year. If he struggles again, Houston will be in the market for a replacement.

60 Jesse Williams, NT, Alabama
The Texans didn't want to address the nose tackle position this offseason, but maybe they'll have a different attitude toward that next spring.

[HPF Bob]

You never know who's going to get injured or who's going to come out early so it's almost pointless now, even if it gets a little conversation going during our off-off-season.

I will say this - if there's a choice when we pick between Jeffcoat and Byndom, I'd choose Byndom. He's been much more impressive to me.

[painekiller]

You never know who's going to get injured or who's going to come out early so it's almost pointless now, even if it gets a little conversation going during our off-off-season.

I will say this - if there's a choice when we pick between Jeffcoat and Byndom, I'd choose Byndom. He's been much more impressive to me.

The list of players I have is all the 5 star players that will be draft eligible next year. There are 35 players listed. Some will fall, and other will come out of nowhere, to be added to this list.

I am speculating from a place where everyone improves, and no one gets hurt. Both of those speculations are going to happen, players backslide and players get hurt, so yes that does change everything.

One thing I am trying to do is account now for losing a few guys to FA again. One of the biggest loses I foresee is Conner Barwin. If he has another year like last year, he will be in line for a big pay raise. And I do not see the team being ale to pay everyone that is going to be due a raise.

So I hope that clears up why I have OLB at the top of my mock. And for the record, IMO Ball has no chance right now of being available at 58. So this is just to kill some time in the off off season.

[Nconroe]

This planning ahead with another tight salary cap is eye opening. I could see this affecting 53 man rosters, trades, and draft next year. Hopefully Texans can extend some of these guys early and keep some team consistency .

I think there is a long list of UFA and RFA next year.

UFA - Matt Schaub, Rashad Butler, Shaun Cody, Bradie James, Brice Mccain, Conner Barwin, Duane Brown, Glover Quin, Antione Caldwell, james Casey, Tim Jamison, Troy Nolan.

RFA
Brian Cushing, Antonio Smith, Wade Smith, Earl Mitchell, Daryl Sharpton, Ben Tate.

Lots of guys who will deserve to get paid.

[barrett]

Any deal Schaub signs next year is likely to significantly lower his cap number. I was amazed they didn't extend him for some cap relief this summer. I guess they are not as sold on him as the guy to lead us to the superbowl as McNair claimed during the manning flirting. I for one love the guy as a playoff QB but am not sold either. I guess he has this year to prove it.

[painekiller]

This planning ahead with another tight salary cap is eye opening. I could see this affecting 53 man rosters, trades, and draft next year. Hopefully Texans can extend some of these guys early and keep some team consistency .

I think there is a long list of UFA and RFA next year.

UFA - Matt Schaub, Rashad Butler, Shaun Cody, Bradie James, Brice Mccain, Conner Barwin, Duane Brown, Glover Quin, Antione Caldwell, james Casey, Tim Jamison, Troy Nolan.

RFA
Brian Cushing, Antonio Smith, Wade Smith, Earl Mitchell, Daryl Sharpton, Ben Tate.

Lots of guys who will deserve to get paid.

The guys in red should all be looking for a big payday. I'm don't think we can keep them all.

As for the guys in blue, they both have over 4 years in the league, and this can not be restricted. Only 3 year vets can be restricted.

[HPF Bob]

The two Smiths were UFAs we signed from other teams so their availability for free agency comes at the end of their current contracts (whenever those are) and they would become UFAs again.

[popanot]

I think it's safe to take Duane Brown off the list when talking about FA's potentially leaving. If he remains healthy and doesn't suffer a devastating injury like Charles Spencer, no way in hell the Texans let him walk. Without a doubt he'll get the F-Tag if it even gets that far.

[painekiller]

26 Kevin Reddick ILB UNC 6' 3" 230
57 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199
89 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297

I could see the Texans going ILB in the 1st, but that is a guy that will only see 40-50% of the defensive snaps, so maybe not. I still see them going OLB in the 1st with Barwin being a FA.

[Joe Joe]

Shaun Cody will most likely be gone after this season so the Texans can afford Brown's new contract. Hopefully this is the year that the Texans get a big oversized NT.

[painekiller]

26 Kevin Reddick ILB UNC 6' 3" 230
56 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
88 Jheranie Boyd WR UNC 6' 2" 190

OK IMO there is no way they take two ILB with their first two picks. Not with Cushing being on the verge of being an All Pro.

ILB is showing a lack of depth right now, but we have a nice mix of youth and veteran at the position. If Sharpton does come back from his injury and looks OK then we maybe OK here at ILB, at least in the first two rounds.

[HPF Bob]

I agree that a NT may be a position of need next year and likely one where someone good might appear at the bottom of the first round where I expect the Texans to be. I could also see them going o-line or DB. I think we are fine in terms of impact positions and can focus on depth primarily.

[painekiller]

29 Houston Texans: Ricky Wagner, OT, Wisconsin
The Texans were interested in bringing in a right tackle early in the 2012 NFL Draft, but they never got the chance. Well, here's their opportunity. The position will have to be addressed if Rashad Butler can't properly fill in for Eric Winston.

59 Houston Texans: Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State
Kareem Jackson will have one more shot to be the starting cornerback across from Johnathan Joseph next year. If he struggles again, Houston will be in the market for a replacement.

I can understand the national press's thinking at OT, but I think they are wrong.

[Joe Joe]

29

59

I can understand the national press's thinking at OT, but I think they are wrong.

Butler will be a free agent, I can see the Texans trying to pinch pennies on guys like him to afford someone like Quin

[painekiller]

This is my mock for the Texans 2013 draft.

32 Jesse Williams DT Alabama Sr 6-3 320
64 Robert Lester FS Alabama Sr 6-2 212
96 *C.J. Fiedorowicz TE Iowa Jr 6-6 265
128 Omoregie Uzzi OG Georgia Tech rSr 6-3 302
160 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State Sr 6-1 244
192 Tavarres King WR Georgia rSr 6-1 200
224 Sean Renfree QB Duke r Sr 6-4 225

My 1st pick is a guy who came to football late, so he is raw, he has played the 5 technique and now is moving to the nose.
Lester will be a 3 year starter in the SEC, has excellent ball skills and could project well into Wade's system.
CJ was just starting to emerge when the season ended last year. Has the size and speed to be a nightmare for defenses to match up with.
Uzzi projects to be my LG to ultimately replace Wade Smith, he would be the final piece of my Future OL. Brown, Uzzi, Jones, Brooks, Newton.
Klein is a ball hawk with cover skills.
King is set for a breakout season for the Bulldogs.
Renfree is dropback passer who has been coached by the man who developed the Manning brothers.

Now remember this is to give us some names to watch this upcoming season. Real college football starts this week. Time to start watching.

[painekiller]

28 D.J. Fluker* OT Alabama 6' 6" 340
58 Jonathan Cooper OC UNC 6' 3" 295
90 Brad Madison DE Missouri 6' 4" 250
122 Craig Roh DE Michigan 6' 5" 269

I really hate it when guys who have no clue of our roster make picks for us. I do not see them going with an OC and two DE's in the first four picks.

My cherry picks:

28 Alex Okafor OLB Texas 6' 4.5" 260
58 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
90 Rod Sweeting CB Georgia Tech 6' 0" 184
122

Only if Barwin leaves in FA.

[Roy P]

I took a look at how I'd have cherry picked the last draft...I would have taken Nick Perry over Mercilus, but regardless they addressed the void of pass-rusher by Mario. Insted of Brooks & Posey - I went CB Jammel Flemming and NT Brandon Thompson. So, I'm hopeful for a NT especially with concerns over Cody's back. I also want another CB for depth. I'm still scratching my head on the OC Ben Jones pick over OT Bobbie Massie. We need a RT. I liked the Crick selection and Martin. I went for big WR Marvin Jones & Juron criner and I hate we went with Posey. Maybe LeStar Jean is a surprise. I also went Markelle Martin so I could play Quinn as the Nickleback, again just trying to match up. I would like to see another ILB to push Dobbins since I have little faith in Bradie James.

[painekiller]

28 D.J. Fluker* OT Alabama 6' 6" 340
58 Jonathan Cooper OC UNC 6' 3" 295
90 Brad Madison DE Missouri 6' 4" 250
122 Craig Roh DE Michigan 6' 5" 269

I really hate it when guys who have no clue of our roster make picks for us. I do not see them going with an OC and two DE's in the first four picks.

My cherry picks:

28 Alex Okafor OLB Texas 6' 4.5" 260
58 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
90 Rod Sweeting CB Georgia Tech 6' 0" 184
122

Only if Barwin leaves in FA.

After this weekend, a little different take on the cherry pick:

28 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
58 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
90 Wes Horton OLB USC 6' 5" 260
122 Chris McDonald OG Michigan State 6' 5" 295

It's more about the positions than the players at this point.

[Joe Joe]

1 William Gholston DE MSU
2 Desmond Trufant CB Washington
3 DT Jamarkus McFarland Okla
Mario Compensation Pick ILB Shayne Skov Stanford
4 DT Dave Kruger Utah

Basically following Paine's idea on picking positions more than players.

I think this draft the Texans may try to trade up in first round. There seem to be three potential 1st round NTs. Getting an impact 3-4 defensive end would be a nice consolation prize if the Texans can't get a NT.

One player at a position outside of need that intrigues me is QB Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech. I want to see another game or two with him. Looks to have a big time arm, good feet, great height, good play action, but he seemed very raw and seemed like release point may be a little low. If he drops low enough in draft, I could see the Texans pulling a Green Bay and drafting Schaub's successor.

[barrett]

1 William Gholston DE MSU
2 Desmond Trufant CB Washington
3 DT Jamarkus McFarland Okla
Mario Compensation Pick ILB Shayne Skov Stanford
4 DT Dave Kruger Utah

Basically following Paine's idea on picking positions more than players.

I think this draft the Texans may try to trade up in first round. There seem to be three potential 1st round NTs. Getting an impact 3-4 defensive end would be a nice consolation prize if the Texans can't get a NT.

One player at a position outside of need that intrigues me is QB Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech. I want to see another game or two with him. Looks to have a big time arm, good feet, great height, good play action, but he seemed very raw and seemed like release point may be a little low. If he drops low enough in draft, I could see the Texans pulling a Green Bay and drafting Schaub's successor.

We just extended Jamison so I doubt we go 1st round DE. NT seems a priority. CB, WR, TE, ILB, will depend on performance of guys already on our roster and may or may not be needs. RB and OLB could become needs based on what we do with the guys at those positions. OL is still potentially a future/immediate need at 3 positions.

[Joe Joe]

We just extended Jamison so I doubt we go 1st round DE. NT seems a priority. CB, WR, TE, ILB, will depend on performance of guys already on our roster and may or may not be needs. RB and OLB could become needs based on what we do with the guys at those positions. OL is still potentially a future/immediate need at 3 positions.

I think Antonio Smith is a goner after seeing Schaub's contract. Gholston would give Jamison competition for start spot, but at worst provide solid depth with Crick.

[HPF Bob]

It's more about the positions than the players at this point.

It almost has to be that way. Texans are at a point where they can truly pick BPA and not worry about position but there are a few spots that may become weak points as the season rolls along.

[barrett]

I think Antonio Smith is a goner after seeing Schaub's contract. Gholston would give Jamison competition for start spot, but at worst provide solid depth with Crick.

I think Smith is probably gone too. I still think that the extension makes a round 1 DE a real longshot, especially when we already have one at the other DE spot and a mid round rookie they seem to like as depth already.

[painekiller]

I was reading today something that Rick Smith said, and it changed my thinking about the draft. They have extended Brown, Schaub and Jamison, and they had talked to Barwin. At this time according to Smith, Barwin is apart of the core guys they want to go forward with. Smith said if they can not sign him before FA then they could franchise him. At the OLB position that is "only" $9MM. So I am thinking right now that OLB is not the 1st pick.

Also if you guys are correct about them letting Smith go after the season, then Jamison is the current top rotational guy. With Crick added as the rotational guy.

I am thinking that the middle of the defense is the top need, that could be NT, ILB or S. I also think that Brooks and Jones will be the most likely starters at the guards next season.

[painekiller]

One player at a position outside of need that intrigues me is QB Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech. I want to see another game or two with him. Looks to have a big time arm, good feet, great height, good play action, but he seemed very raw and seemed like release point may be a little low. If he drops low enough in draft, I could see the Texans pulling a Green Bay and drafting Schaub's successor.

I agree, I want to see Thomas also, but I was not that impressed with his first game this season.

[painekiller]

30 Sean Porter OLB Texas A&M 6' 2" 230
60 Jonathan Cooper OC UNC 6' 3" 295
92 Jamarkus McFarland DT Oklahoma 6' 2" 296
124 Carson York OT Oregon 6' 5" 286

Porter's size does not fit our OLBs. They need to be larger in order to set the edge. Now if Porter can carry some more weight and play inside he might be a fit. Again I do not see the Texans going with another OC, I think Meyers and Jones have us set.

The last two picks might work.

[HPF Bob]

There's one site that lets you set the draft priorities but, unfortunately, they don't seem to update their ratings so you still don't wind up with a good mock draft.

The problem with many mock drafts is that they are done by people with only a cursory knowledge of each team so they don't really know (unless its obvious) what positions a team is most interested in.

[painekiller]

There's one site that lets you set the draft priorities but, unfortunately, they don't seem to update their ratings so you still don't wind up with a good mock draft.

The problem with many mock drafts is that they are done by people with only a cursory knowledge of each team so they don't really know (unless its obvious) what positions a team is most interested in.

are you talking about DraftTek.com?

They only have 100 players ranked right now, they say that will be increased soon.

I have never been able to figure out how to set the priorities, so I just look at the one they run.

[popanot]

If I had to pick a position of need right now for the Texans to use a #1 pick on, I'd hope they'd find a fast, aggressive, mean as hell ILB. OL would be my #2 and #3.

[HPF Bob]

As of right now, my draft priorities would be:

1. DT - If a good one is there, that will be hard to pass up.
2. ILB - Perhaps a greater need but really good ones should still be there in the second round, unlike d-linemen. Remember, that's where we found Demeco.
3. RG, RT - This is a need that slides up or down based on how well the current solutions perform. Not sold on them yet.
4. DB - It's been better since JJo arrived and we found a pass rush but I'd still like to see some better talent.
5. WR - This is another one where current solutions may drive this need up or down the chart.

[painekiller]

As of right now, my draft priorities would be:

1. DT - If a good one is there, that will be hard to pass up.
2. ILB - Perhaps a greater need but really good ones should still be there in the second round, unlike d-linemen. Remember, that's where we found Demeco.
3. RG, RT - This is a need that slides up or down based on how well the current solutions perform. Not sold on them yet.
4. DB - It's been better since JJo arrived and we found a pass rush but I'd still like to see some better talent.
5. WR - This is another one where current solutions may drive this need up or down the chart.

The statement highlighted in red could be said about the ILB, RG, RT, DB, and WR.

At ILB we have Mister Alexander, in his first year of real action. He might be a carrier backup/ST type, or a diamond in the rough. And I agree that this is a high priority position. The best ILB in the draft is Manti Te'o, who is looking to be a top 10 pick, the next guys on the list are looking to be mid to late 2nds. So there is no ILB worth a late 1st IMO. That is why we have to look else where in the 1st.

Jones, Brooks, and Newton are all in there 1st or 2nd year, so they will only get better with more reps.

The DBs have Roc and Harris who have shown flashes in their 2nd camp. They both look to have great upside. Safety could be an option.

WR, 3 targets to guys with 2 or less years in the NFL is not a big enough sample to determine their progress. (As you pointed out). I hope Mercilus does not make us regret passing on Stephen Hill.

[HPF Bob]

I feel good, generally, about the defense since Wade Phillips took over. He's a lousy HC but a great DC. Bradie James knows the system and I think he's a good band-aid. We seem to find some other guys in the middle who are competent though not flashy. As long as we aren't hit hard by injuries, the defense should be fine. The offense is a harder question because you wonder just how much we would suffer if Schaub or Johnson missed significant time. We got some answers to this last year but I hate to see that again this year.

[WMH]

As of right now, my draft priorities would be:

1. DT - If a good one is there, that will be hard to pass up.
2. ILB - Perhaps a greater need but really good ones should still be there in the second round, unlike d-linemen. Remember, that's where we found Demeco.
3. RG, RT - This is a need that slides up or down based on how well the current solutions perform. Not sold on them yet.
4. DB - It's been better since JJo arrived and we found a pass rush but I'd still like to see some better talent.
5. WR - This is another one where current solutions may drive this need up or down the chart.

I would definitely agree with a DT in the top slot, especially since I'm seeing the Ninja as a cap casulaty next year.
I might move DB up a bit, rds. 2 or 3, as if Quinn has a good year, he could get something in the D Manning contract ranges. Don't think we have ever drafted a legitimate S.

[painekiller]

30 Sean Porter OLB Texas A&M 6' 2" 230
60 Jonathan Cooper OC UNC 6' 3" 295
92 Jamarkus McFarland DT Oklahoma 6' 2" 296
124 Carson York OT Oregon 6' 5" 286

So taking into account some of the suggestions above how about this cherry pick:

30 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320 can play the 5 tech or the NT
60 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240 smart, big inside guy
92 Sonny Vaccaro S Texas 6' 1" 215

then we will have a comp pick and so on.

I would be OK with trading down out of the 1st round to get extra picks.

[WMH]

So taking into account some of the suggestions above how about this cherry pick:

30 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320 can play the 5 tech or the NT
60 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240 smart, big inside guy
92 Sonny Vaccaro S Texas 6' 1" 215

then we will have a comp pick and so on.

I would be OK with trading down out of the 1st round to get extra picks.

This makes entirely too much sense for it to ever actually happen ;)

[painekiller]

31 Kawann Short DT Purdue 6' 3" 305
61 Chase Thomas ILB Stanford 6' 4" 240
93 Erik Highsmith WR UNC 6' 3" 175
125 Matt Scott QB Arizona 6' 3" 195

I could see the first three picks but not the 4th one. They just extended Schaub, and they have Yates and Keenum tied up for a few years also. Plus no one is going to touch Beck.

This will be a year in which I truly see the Texans going with a BPA approach. IMO the team needs: NG & ILB, all the other needs have yet to truly be worked out. The WR, OL, DBs are all works in progress. So it's hard to decide what we need.

[HPF Bob]

Didn't Arizona have Nick Foles last year? The Arizona QB will probably not be very polished when he comes out.

And how does a guy that's 6-3 get the name "short"?

[Joe Joe]

I agree, I want to see Thomas also, but I was not that impressed with his first game this season.

Watching him a little today. He doesn't seem to lead the receivers well. I love his mobility in the pocket,but I just don't know if he places ball well enough to be successful in the NFL.

[painekiller]

32 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
62 Mike Glennon QB North Carolina State 6' 6" 225
94 Zach Martin OT Notre Dame 6' 4" 280
126 Marcus Sales WR Syracuse 6' 0" 177
158 Dan Conroy K Michigan State 5' 10" 190

Wow, two WR a year after taking two WRs? Again they have no clue of our current roster. A QB in the 2nd and a K in the 5th? NO way this is even close. I did like where they have us picking.

My mock:
32 Xavier Rhodes* CB Florida State 6' 1" 209
62 Nico Johnson ILB Alabama 6' 3" 238
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
158 *Joseph Randle RB Oklahoma State 6'0" 200

A CB to push Jackson and for depth, two ILB gives you instant depth and one should push the old man out of town, this is a deep year for ILBs, Hill low to the ground DT, and a RB if you want to let Tate go or are thinking of trading him at the draft.

BTW I would not be against a WR like Williams, but we don't need two WR in this next draft.

[Nconroe]

So, how is it we get the 32nd pick?:)

[HPF Bob]

So, how is it we get the 32nd pick?:)

Probably traded down with the Patriots :p

But, seriously, two WRs and a PK is nuts however they knew us well enough to have us take a QB from the ACC...

[painekiller]

32 Robert Woods* WR USC 6' 1" 185
62 Denard Robinson QB Michigan 6' 0" 185
94 Micah Hyde CB Iowa 6' 1" 185
126 Cornellius Carradine DE Florida State 6' 5" 265
158 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
190 Dyrell Roberts WR Virginia Tech 6' 1" 196

Again no way they take two WR, and give me a break, Robinson is not a QB in the NFL, maybe the CFL, but not the NFL, so that is 3 WR?

My cherry pick, and agian, I am not opposed to one WR.

32 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
62 Desmond Trufant CB Washington 6' 0" 172
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
158 Tanner Brock ILB TCU 6' 3" 246
190 John Boyett FS Oregon rSr 5-10 205

[HPF Bob]

32 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
62 Desmond Trufant CB Washington 6' 0" 172
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297

PK, those first four picks are a great draft, IMO. Probably too good as in "won't be there in real life".

[painekiller]

PK, those first four picks are a great draft, IMO. Probably too good as in "won't be there in real life".

Yes it would be, and that is passing up on two guys I love for our 3-4 Okafor and Jeffcoat in the 1st.

And I agree, as we get closer to the actual draft, guys will climb and some of the QBs near the top will drop.

[painekiller]

Boredom on a Saturday night leads to another Mock. I'm going to use CBS Sports.com 's list of top players. I will not use a pick number due to the fact that I am adding in estimated supplemental picks. (3rd for Mario, 5th for Brisiel, and a 7th for Allen).

1st Alex Okafor DE Texas Sr 6-5 265
2nd Shayne Skov ILB Stanford Sr 6-3 242 This is a more realistic place for him
3rd Bacarri Rambo FS Georgia rSr 6-0 210
3 Sup Desmond Trufant CB Washington Sr 6-0 186
4th Joseph Randle RB Oklahoma State Jr 6-0 200
5th Anthony Rashad White DT Michigan State Sr 6-2 330
5 Sup Jonathan Bostic ILB Florida Sr 6-1 246
6th Xavier Nixon OT Florida Sr 6-5 314
7th Lucas Reed TE New Mexico rSr 6-5 250
7 sup Ryan Allen P Louisiana Tech rSr 6-2 215

Very few of these guys are going to have roster spots. This team is young and deep, so any pick after the 3rd or 4th rounds will have to play very well in order to get a roster spot.

If Barwin continues to play with no sacks, he could be in for a low ball offer and possibly be allowed to walk. Thus my 1st pick. We need ILB help and depth. With Rambo's suspension due to a failed drug test, would the Texans look at him, a lot of weight would have to be given to the interview and college coaches reviews of him. They did give Braman and Posey chances. Trufant is a solid pick in the late 3rd. And if a back like Randle is available in the 4th you jump up to hand in your card on draft day. The guys after that are just filling up training camp spots on this team.

[Nconroe]

Free Agency is the wild card right now in how many and which position groups might be tarrgeted, seems we will have about 8 FA who will want to be paid, just like this year.. Hopefully we can hold on to most of them.

Are there any tall , say 6'3" DBs to help coveer tall WR and TE, similar to what Seattle has done?

Sounds about right on compensatory picks.

[painekiller]

Are there any tall , say 6'3" DBs to help coveer tall WR and TE, similar to what Seattle has done?



Not where we are projecting to pick. 6'1" guys are available throughout the draft, 6'3" is a different animal.

[Nconroe]

Wonder if they'd take a chance somewhere in draft on


Ray Ray Armstrong, S, Faulkner University
Height: 6-4. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
Projected Round (2013): 4-6.

He was doing well at Miami then decided to be a dunce and meet with marketers.

[painekiller]

Wonder if they'd take a chance somewhere in draft on


Ray Ray Armstrong, S, Faulkner University
Height: 6-4. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
Projected Round (2013): 4-6.

He was doing well at Miami then decided to be a dunce and meet with marketers.

He is not on the team at Faulkner from what I can see. Not sure how the Texans would view him.

Ray-Ray Armstrong declared ineligible by NAIA (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/um-hurricanes/miami-hurricanes-blog/sfl-rayray-armstrong-ruled-ineligible-by-naia-20120911,0,3588541.story)

By Michael Casagrande Sun Sentinel

5:15 p.m. EDT, September 12, 2012

Update 5:14 p.m. Wednesday: The next move for Ray-Ray Armstrong is still unknown at this point.

Faulkner University spokesman Doug Amos said he "gets the impression" Armstrong will stay at the small school in Montgomery, Ala. after spending the last month there.

He would still be eligible to practice with the team. The NAIA's ruling only barred him from competition. About five or six NFL scouts had already been to town to watch him practice.

---

Original story:

The college football career of former Miami safety Ray-Ray Armstrong appears to be over.

The NAIA officially declared the Sanford, Fla., product ineligible Tuesday after nearly a month's wait. Armstrong had been attending Faulkner University in Montgomery, Ala., after being kicked off the Miami team in late July.

According to a news release from Faulkner, the NAIA did not grant Armstrong his senior season because UM had declared him ineligible for NCAA competition.

The NAIA rule book has a stated policy on the matter:

“Any student who has completed eligibility or who has been permanently banned in a given sport at any four-year institution, either NAIA-affiliated or other, shall have no eligibility remaining in that sport within the NAIA," the rule book reads. "Such a student cannot regain eligibility in that sport at an NAIA institution.”

According to Faulkner, Miami tried to get Armstrong reinstated so he could play at the new school, but the NCAA ruled UM did not have that authority.

“We’re disappointed in the ruling, obviously,” Faulkner athletics director and head football coach Brent Barker said in the news release. “We respect the great job the NAIA Eligibility Center does for our student-athletes, but we thought Ray Ray’s situation was unique and unprecedented, and deserved a positive ruling.

"I most of all hate it for him, because he has fit in so well on our campus with our student body and has really been a leader in our locker room with a lot of our younger players."

Armstrong was dismissed from the Hurricanes on July 18 after a suspension-plagued junior season. Armstrong was allegedly dishonest with the school during an internal investigation.

Lawyers representing Armstrong threatened to sue Miami for reinstatement to the program before deciding to enroll at Faulkner.

[painekiller]

32 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
62 Denard Robinson QB Michigan 6' 0" 185
94 DeVonte Holloman S South Carolina 6' 2" 226
126 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205
158 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
190 Dyrell Roberts WR Virginia Tech 6' 1" 196

I can live with the 1st pick, but I wish they would watch a Texans game before setting our needs list.

32 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
62 Kevin Minter ILB LSU 6-1 245
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
158 Quinn Sharp PT Oklahoma State 6' 1" 194
190 Best RB on the board.

[WMH]

32 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
62 Denard Robinson QB Michigan 6' 0" 185
94 DeVonte Holloman S South Carolina 6' 2" 226
126 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205
158 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
190 Dyrell Roberts WR Virginia Tech 6' 1" 196

I can live with the 1st pick, but I wish they would watch a Texans game before setting our needs list.

No doubt. Not 1....but 2 QB's after locking Schaub up for a multi-year deal? Um....OK.

[painekiller]

No doubt. Not 1....but 2 QB's after locking Schaub up for a multi-year deal? Um....OK.

To be fair, I think most people are picking Robinson to be a WR. Not a QB.

[nunusguy]

So are we expecting to get a comp pick, maybe a 3rd rounder, for Mario in next years Draft ?

[HPF Bob]

So are we expecting to get a comp pick, maybe a 3rd rounder, for Mario in next years Draft ?

I could never figure out their formula. All I know is that good teams like the Patriots, Colts and Steelers always managed to get a boatload of comp picks and my teams never got any.

I'm sure we'll get something for Mario (and Briesel) but wouldn't want to speculate on exactly what. There's never been a comp pick higher than the end of the third and the picks cannot be traded unlike the team's own picks.

[WMH]

So are we expecting to get a comp pick, maybe a 3rd rounder, for Mario in next years Draft ?

Gonna be tough with his lack of production. Like Bob said, it is a stupid formula, but I believe production is a factor. We'll get something, but unless he picks up the pace, don't think it will be a 3rd.

[popanot]

So are we expecting to get a comp pick, maybe a 3rd rounder, for Mario in next years Draft ?I'm going to be super ticked if we don't get at least a #3 out of Mario. The NFL throws around these picks like they're nothing and I've seen teams get decent picks for far less when compared to Mario's supposed 'value'. I thought we got screwed on DRob's sup pick.

[HPF Bob]

IIRC, the size of the contract counts more than the player's production. The fact the Bills spent a bunch of money (and Mario is complaining he is injured but the Bills won't put him on the injury report) on him probably is the key factor. Plus it subtracts the FAs the Texans signed.

I think a third is appropriate but the formula could come up with two 4ths or two 5ths instead. :confused:

[painekiller]

IIRC, the size of the contract counts more than the player's production. The fact the Bills spent a bunch of money (and Mario is complaining he is injured but the Bills won't put him on the injury report) on him probably is the key factor. Plus it subtracts the FAs the Texans signed.

I think a third is appropriate but the formula could come up with two 4ths or two 5ths instead. :confused:

I am thinking we are going to get a 3rd for Mario, a 5th for Briesel and a 7th for Allen. It is based on the contract, if the guy is considered an A, B, or C level FA which if I understand correctly has to do with being a starter a rotational guy or a backup.

The signing of James will be factored into the equation.

Also we get nothing for Winston who was a salary cap cut.

[today]

Just got done watching Quinton Patton work my Aggies over for 21 catches, 233 yards, and 4 TDs. Reminded me of a day that Larry Fitzgerald had against us years ago.

After doing some research I see that some places have him as a top 5 WR, and others have him as low as 20th. Seems like a 1st rounder after what I saw tonight.

[painekiller]

32 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
62 Denard Robinson QB Michigan 6' 0" 185
94 DeVonte Holloman S South Carolina 6' 2" 226
126 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205
158 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
190 Dyrell Roberts WR Virginia Tech 6' 1" 196

I can live with the 1st pick, but I wish they would watch a Texans game before setting our needs list.

32 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
62 Kevin Minter ILB LSU 6-1 245
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
158 Quinn Sharp PT Oklahoma State 6' 1" 194
190 Best RB on the board.

Maybe it should look like this:
31 Eric Reid* S LSU 6' 2" 208
61 Sylvester Williams DT UNC 6' 3" 320
93 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
125 Dion Jordan DE Oregon 6' 7" 231
157 Tanner Brock ILB TCU 6' 3" 246
189 Dyrell Roberts WR Virginia Tech 6' 1" 196

Yes you can see a theme here.

[Nconroe]

I guess that speed on defense is the theme.

[painekiller]

I guess that speed on defense is the theme.

I was going to say defense was the theme, but I'll take yours.

[painekiller]

31 Tavon Austin WR West Virginia 5' 9" 173
61 Joe Vellano DT Maryland 6' 2" 285
93 Arthur Brown ILB Kansas State 6' 1" 223
125 Russell Shepard RB LSU 6' 1" 188
157 Dave Kruger DT Utah 6' 5" 290
189 Kenny Demens ILB Michigan 6' 1" 248

Not a bad attempt, but I see guys that don't fit the prototypes for certain positions.

31 Sylvester Williams DT UNC 6' 3" 320
61 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
93 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
125 Sanders Commings CB Georgia 6' 2" 216
157 Tanner Brock ILB TCU 6' 3" 246
189 Brett Maher PT Nebraska 6' 0" 185

[Nconroe]

I like yours a lot better PK.

Gil Brandt had an interesting stat that the Pro Bowl had 23 UDFA. Found that interesting.

[painekiller]

I like yours a lot better PK.

Gil Brandt had an interesting stat that the Pro Bowl had 23 UDFA. Found that interesting.

Don't tell that to Charlie Casserly :D

[painekiller]

With the bye week upon us, time for me to readdress the teams areas of need as I see them. I truly see a strong team, not many weaknesses. Some depth area that can be improved upon, but no glaring issues.

So what are my concerns, the upcoming FAs are a concern. Barwin, Cody, Quin, McCain, Caldwell to name a few. Caldwell looks like he has been replaced, unless they want him for depth. McCain has a high round draft pick on the bench, Harris is waiting, does he deserve a shot? Cody, Barwin and Quin are all starters that are being paid on the low end for their positions. We have the franchise tag, which currently doesn't seem likely on any of them, unless Barwin really steps it up. And Mercilus showed signs today that he deserves more snaps.

What are my biggest concerns? ILB and NT are the biggest. TE, more specifically a blocking TE. Safety help is possibly on the list, if we loose Quin. OLB depth if we loose Barwin. Depth at DE is always a position to watch for.

To a lesser extent the OL could be an issue if Newton flops, I don't see that happening.

I'm ok at the following positions for the coming offseason: QB, RB, WR, CB, K, P.

I can see us going BPA, and truly meaning it.

[Foo'ball Fool]

PK, I'd only question the kicker. While Graham is accurate, he doesn't kick for distance. In every game this season, IIRC, the opposing kicker has regularly booted the football out of the end zone. Graham rarely does that. Consequently, we lose the field position battle almost every game. I wouldn't mind seeing a kicker either drafted late, or an UDFA, to compete for the spot.

[barrett]

PK, I'd only question the kicker. While Graham is accurate, he doesn't kick for distance. In every game this season, IIRC, the opposing kicker has regularly booted the football out of the end zone. Graham rarely does that. Consequently, we lose the field position battle almost every game. I wouldn't mind seeing a kicker either drafted late, or an UDFA, to compete for the spot.

We drafted Bullock in the 5th round last year and he tore his groin (I think that was the injury). He would have been the kicker this year and should be next year.

[Foo'ball Fool]

We drafted Bullock in the 5th round last year and he tore his groin (I think that was the injury). He would have been the kicker this year and should be next year.

Now why didn't I remember that?! Senior moment on my part, I guess. Bullock looked good before he got hurt, if I remember.

[painekiller]

We drafted Bullock in the 5th round last year and he tore his groin (I think that was the injury). He would have been the kicker this year and should be next year.

Thanks for answering the question for me, and that is how I see it.

As for the punter Jones was over 50yds for a while yesterday. He is at 46.9 yds for the year. That is the best in our teams history. Now if we can only figure out how to cover the punts.

[painekiller]

31 T.J. McDonald S USC 6' 2" 205
61 Marcus Sales WR Syracuse 6' 0" 177
93 Phillip Steward ILB Houston 6' 2" 220
125 Greg Reid CB Valdosta State 5' 9" 175
157 T.J. Pryor QB Eastern Kentucky 6' 2" 181
189 Taylor Henry DE Oregon State 6' 1" 240

[Joe Joe]

I'm starting to give upon Newton. May need to get a RT. I'd still like to add a DE to replace Smith who I expect will be a cap casualty. Jamison would probably be starter, but depth is nice to have.

[WMH]

Hopefully, we can re-sign Quin, but his price tag is rising with his play, and we will still be squeaking by on the cap again next year. We have seen what kind of impact that quality safety play can do for us, so if we lose Quin, I would definitely want a top tier S. We've never drafted a top end S, but it might be the time to start.

Disagree with you PK on T. I don't think 1st 3 rds is out of the question. Newton is young, and still learning, but we have NADA behind him. If Newton progresses, great, if not, he is replaced, and becomes the swing. Butler is likely done, unless he signs the minimum, which may be the case.

Crick has done OK for a rook, and I would guess he will slide into Smiths spot at DE, but depth would be an issue.

ILB is definitely a need spot as well.

That would be at the top of my board/wish list - S, T, ILB, DE, probably in that order.
(I would prioritize Quin over Barwin, but don't think "they" will).

[painekiller]

Disagree with you PK on T. I don't think 1st 3 rds is out of the question. Newton is young, and still learning, but we have NADA behind him. If Newton progresses, great, if not, he is replaced, and becomes the swing. Butler is likely done, unless he signs the minimum, which may be the case.



I think Harris is our new swing tackle going forward. And i think we forget that it took Brown two years of rotations to fully become an every down player.

I also agree that Butler is gone.

And I never said anything about what rounds we should address a position. If Newton flops then grabbing a RT in the 1st or 2nd rounds make sense, I just don't think you decide this off season that he is a flop. I think it will be the off season after this upcoming one (2014) that the team makes that decision.

[painekiller]

I think Harris is our new swing tackle going forward. And i think we forget that it took Brown two years of rotations to fully become an every down player.

I also agree that Butler is gone.

And I never said anything about what rounds we should address a position. If Newton flops then grabbing a RT in the 1st or 2nd rounds make sense, I just don't think you decide this off season that he is a flop. I think it will be the off season after this upcoming one (2014) that the team makes that decision.

But Lance Zierlein thinks Newton is not playing to the level that he should and he should be replaced in the draft. (http://blog.chron.com/fantasyfootball/2012/10/breaking-down-texansravens-chris-myers-dominates-as-does-the-defense/)

* It is becoming more and more clear that Derek Newton isn’t going to be the guy moving forward in the long-term at RT. He’s not a bad player, he’s just doesn’t play with the balance or power that the Texans probably thought he would. The Texans can win games with Newton at RT, but if I were GM Rick Smith, I would be scouting RTs in this year’s draft and look to move Newton into the swing tackle position.

See the other observation that Lance makes by clicking the above link.

[painekiller]

31 T.J. McDonald S USC 6' 2" 205
61 Marcus Sales WR Syracuse 6' 0" 177
93 Phillip Steward ILB Houston 6' 2" 220
125 Greg Reid CB Valdosta State 5' 9" 175
157 T.J. Pryor QB Eastern Kentucky 6' 2" 181
189 Taylor Henry DE Oregon State 6' 1" 240

What if we do not think that Newton is the man at RT?

31 Oday Aboushi OT Virginia 6' 6" 310
61 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
93 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
125 Cameron Meredith OLB Nebraska 6' 4" 260
157 Tanner Brock ILB TCU 6' 3" 246
BPA

We have to remember that we could be getting 3 comp picks. A team can not trade the comp picks but having the picks may allow Rick Smith to move up during the draft because he can stop worrying about about having enough picks. This team will not have to many spots available depending on the FA that either stay or go.

If Jake Matthews is available after 21, maybe you trade up for him, he would be the perfect RT in this system. I think he could play LT for many teams.

[painekiller]

31 Sylvester Williams DT UNC 6' 3" 320
61 Stedman Bailey* WR West Virginia 5' 10" 190
93 Brandon Sharpe DE Syracuse 6' 1" 255
125 Gerald Hodges OLB Penn State 6' 2" 234
157 Marcus Davis WR Virginia Tech 6' 4" 232
189 Chad Bumphis WR Mississippi State 5' 10" 195

Really 3 WR and only one that fits Kubiak's typical mold, a very unoriginal mock for the Texans.

[HPF Bob]

31 Sylvester Williams DT UNC 6' 3" 320
61 Stedman Bailey* WR West Virginia 5' 10" 190
93 Brandon Sharpe DE Syracuse 6' 1" 255
125 Gerald Hodges OLB Penn State 6' 2" 234
157 Marcus Davis WR Virginia Tech 6' 4" 232
189 Chad Bumphis WR Mississippi State 5' 10" 195

Really 3 WR and only one that fits Kubiak's typical mold, a very unoriginal mock for the Texans.

I'm just checking it now (11/7) and I'm seeing something different:

31. D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama (6-6, 340 - doesn't seem like a ZBS guy)
61. Steadman Bailey, WR. W. Virginia (5-10, 190)
93. Phillip Steward, ILB, Houston (6-2, 220 - pretty light for an ILB in 3-4)
125. Lane Taylor, OC, Oklahoma St. (6-2, 301 - what of Myers & Jones?)
157. Russell Shepard, RB, LSU (6-1, 188)
189. D.J. Swearinger, CB, S. Carolina (6-0, 210)

So lemme cherry-pick while I'm here:

31. Sylvester Williams, DT, N. Carolina (6-3, 320 - best marriage of need, talent left on the board)
61. Shayne Skov, ILB, Stanford (6-3, 242)
93. Bradon Hansen, OG, BYU (6-6, 310 - older OL with game experience at all three positions, nimble enough for ZBS)
Comp pick: Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M (6-0, 204 - like his overall game and knack for big plays)
125. Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise St. (5-11, 194)
157. Theo Riddick, RB, Notre Dame (5-11, 198 - depth for an injury-prone position)
189. help at safety
7th round. BPA

[painekiller]

I'm just checking it now (11/7) and I'm seeing something different:

31. D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama (6-6, 340 - doesn't seem like a ZBS guy)
61. Steadman Bailey, WR. W. Virginia (5-10, 190)
93. Phillip Steward, ILB, Houston (6-2, 220 - pretty light for an ILB in 3-4)
125. Lane Taylor, OC, Oklahoma St. (6-2, 301 - what of Myers & Jones?)
157. Russell Shepard, RB, LSU (6-1, 188)
189. D.J. Swearinger, CB, S. Carolina (6-0, 210)

So lemme cherry-pick while I'm here:

31. Sylvester Williams, DT, N. Carolina (6-3, 320 - best marriage of need, talent left on the board)
61. Shayne Skov, ILB, Stanford (6-3, 242)
93. Bradon Hansen, OG, BYU (6-6, 310 - older OL with game experience at all three positions, nimble enough for ZBS)
Comp pick: Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M (6-0, 204 - like his overall game and knack for big plays)
125. Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise St. (5-11, 194)
157. Theo Riddick, RB, Notre Dame (5-11, 198 - depth for an injury-prone position)
189. help at safety
7th round. BPA

I could live with this mock of theirs, and I like your mock also. Not a Swope fan currently, not sure he has the quickness the Texans need in the slot, which is where I think he projects. Plus I think he ends up in Miami.

[painekiller]

I have some time to kill until the kickoff tonight. I hate the prime time start. So another mock from the cbssports.com rankings.

1 Barrett Jones OG Alabama Sr 6-4 305 Jones could be a 5 position guy in the NFL. He might be a super stud at the RT position, he is at worse LG in this league. A little short to play LT but he was 1st team all SEC at LT last season, so he has skills, he is currently playing OC for the Tide. This would give the Texans options on the OL. Brooks can play RG and possibly RT, Ben Jones can play both guards and OC, Barrett Jones could be one of three positions, LG/RG/RT, and be a starter next season and for the next 10 years.

2 Kevin Minter ILB LSU rJr 6-1 245 Would give the Texans another ILB to go with Sharpton (if he is recovered) and Cushing. Stout against the run and decent enough in pass coverage. Could be part of the 2 down ILB rotation.

3 Bacarri Rambo FS Georgia rSr 6-0 210 Rambo ( i love this name) has some dings to his off the field record, but on the field he is a stud. He might be a 2nd rounder but he currently #93 on cbssports.com and #81 on thehuddlereport.com. If he is here you take him. Adding playmakers to the safety position always helps the team.

3A supplemental pick Shayne Skov ILB Stanford Sr 6-3 242 If we ahev learned anything this season, having enough high level tackling machines to play the ILB position is a must. Skov is a high effort guy, a smart guy, can play the run or the pass. IMO he is a 2nd rounder, but cbssports has him as a 3-4 round guy, so I jump on him. I now have some insurance for Cushing and Sharpton.

4 Abry Jones DT Georgia Sr 6-3 308 Has had ankle surgery and will miss the rest of the regular season, has a chance to play in bowl game. Could become a sleeper type pick. Can play the 5 tech or can be move inside and be a disruptor in the backfield. Has long arms.

5 Jeremiah Attaochu OLB Georgia Tech Jr 6-2 240 Plays the strong side OLB in the 3-4 at Georgia Tech. A little on the short side, but....

5 supplemental Michael Williams TE Alabama rSr 6-5 272 Blocking TE who has receiving skills. Has size and strength at the point of attach in the run.

6 Theo Riddick RB Notre Dame Sr 5-11 200 Any 6th rounder or later is a long shot to make this team, depending FA losses.

7 Quinn Sharp P Oklahoma State rSr 6-1 205 see comment above.

[popanot]

I think this next draft is going to be heavy at OL with a sprinkle of ILB and OLB - with an eye on ST players. Wouldn't surprise me to see 3 of our first 4 picks (hopefully we get a #3 for Mario) go to OL.

[nunusguy]

So PK, I gather you think that xtra 3 & 5 are comp picks ?

[painekiller]

So PK, I gather you think that xtra 3 & 5 are comp picks ?

Yes, a 3rd for Mario, and a 5th for Briesel. We might get a 7th also. Brady James will count against us in the formula, so not sure of the comp picks.

Sorry I called them supplemental.

[painekiller]

32 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
62 Oday Aboushi OT Virginia 6' 6" 310
94 Sonny Vaccaro S Texas 6' 1" 215
126 John Boyett S Oregon 5' 10" 198
158 Russell Shepard RB LSU 6' 1" 188
190 Will Compton ILB Nebraska 6' 2" 230

I could live with this.

[HPF Bob]

Having watched Vacarro at Texas, he will probably win a job on special teams because he makes memorable hits but he hits more than he tackles and I'd rather have defensive backs who tackle receivers instead of throwing a shoulder into them and hoping they fall down.

Watch the better defenses in the NFL and you'll see them wrap up and bring down ball carriers in the open field. The Texas players, regrettably, don't do this which is why they are 85th in defense. They just don't tackle; they hit and hope he falls.

[painekiller]

Having watched Vacarro at Texas, he will probably win a job on special teams because he makes memorable hits but he hits more than he tackles and I'd rather have defensive backs who tackle receivers instead of throwing a shoulder into them and hoping they fall down.

Watch the better defenses in the NFL and you'll see them wrap up and bring down ball carriers in the open field. The Texas players, regrettably, don't do this which is why they are 85th in defense. They just don't tackle; they hit and hope he falls.

I am also not a fan of Vacarro and his tackling, but for a national mock draftsite did a decent mock for us IMO. I agree Safety is a position we may need to target in the draft, and again I want to be on the record, This is not a good draft class as of right now, and the Texans are very deep currently, that can change after early March and the FA are signed, so I am not worrying about the later rounds.

Might be a good year to trade up into the late teens or early 20's to pick.

[HPF Bob]

We've seen Rick Smith trade down a few times. I can't recall him trading up with a target in mind. I might be wrong but I don't really recall a "The _____ have traded out of their pick and with that pick the Texans select...." since the infamous Babin trade which was done by Chatty Casserley.

[painekiller]

We've seen Rick Smith trade down a few times. I can't recall him trading up with a target in mind. I might be wrong but I don't really recall a "The _____ have traded out of their pick and with that pick the Texans select...." since the infamous Babin trade which was done by Chatty Casserley.

Rick has done it in the later rounds, Ben Tate came after a trade down then a trade back up, but he has never done one in the 1st round.

[painekiller]

31 Houston Texans: Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor
The Texans have needed a No. 2 receiver for years, but now that Andre Johnson is declining, it won't be long before they have to secure a new No. 1 wideout for Matt Schaub.

Pick change; previously Jesse Williams, NT

62 Houston Texans: Margus Hunt, DE/DT, SMU
The Texans, with very few needs, can afford to take the best player available. Antonio Smith will be a free agent following the 2013 season, so Houston will need someone to step in starting in 2014.

Pick change; previously Ricky Wagner, OT
93 Houston Texans: Bacarri Rambo, S, Georgia
Glover Quin is a free agent this upcoming offseason. It'll be difficult to retain him with Connor Barwin also hitting the market.

Pick change; previously Duke Williams, S

IMO I trade up or I trade down, trading down I look like this

2a Shayne Skov, ILB, Stanford Or biggest need is currently ILB depth and future
2b Cobi Hamilton, WR, Arkansas (after the trade down)
3 Bacarri Rambo, S, Georgia - I could live with Rambo

[painekiller]

31 Cobi Hamilton WR Arkansas 6' 3" 209
61 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
93 Gerald Hodges OLB Penn State 6' 2" 234
125 Brad Madison DE Missouri 6' 4" 250
157 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240
189 Taylor Reed ILB Southern Methodist 5' 11" 215

Decent enough

I would change a few picks:

31 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
61 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
93 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
125 Theo Riddick RB Notre Dame 5' 11" 198
157 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240
189 BPA

My names are starting to be familiar.

[HPF Bob]

I would only take an OLB in the first round if we aren't keeping Barwin. Otherwise, we have enough invested with Barwin, Reed and Mercilus. Of course, Cushing was an OLB in college so there could be the plan to convert such a pick to the inside.

I'd sure rather see a big body in the middle or the top ILB at the bottom of Round 1.

[painekiller]

I would only take an OLB in the first round if we aren't keeping Barwin. Otherwise, we have enough invested with Barwin, Reed and Mercilus. Of course, Cushing was an OLB in college so there could be the plan to convert such a pick to the inside.

I'd sure rather see a big body in the middle or the top ILB at the bottom of Round 1.

Chase Thomas is a guy I can see playing either inside or the outside in our system. He is on the small side for a full time OLB in Wade's system, but he certainly could be an ILB in the base defense and a pass rusher with quickness in some passing down packages.

Also I am thinking Barwin is gone if he is offered a decent size contract from someone, but that happening is looking more unlikely.

Skov is a more traditional ILB, and we need to upgrade the depth at ILB.

That would give the Texans Cushing coming of IR, Sharpton who will have missed half this season, Dobbins and Skov as full time ILB and Thomas as a swing guy going from ILB to OLB depending on the package.

[nunusguy]

Until we know Wade Phillips plans beyond this year, wouldn't it be premature to sign/resign any LBs ?

[HPF Bob]

Until we know Wade Phillips plans beyond this year, wouldn't it be premature to sign/resign any LBs ?

Maybe not. If we promote a DC from within if Phillips leaves, then the schemes are likely to remain the same. I think it would be foolish, after our personnel decisions of the past two years, to switch back to a 4-3 base.

[painekiller]

Maybe not. If we promote a DC from within if Phillips leaves, then the schemes are likely to remain the same. I think it would be foolish, after our personnel decisions of the past two years, to switch back to a 4-3 base.

I completely agree, going back to a 4-3 right now is not the best move IMO.

My problem is which guy would you go with? Reggie called the defense last year during the game Wade missed, and the team sucked that week. I like the young DB coach, Vance Joseph, but he has no experience calling defenses. Kollar was here during the bad defense years, so can he be an answer, not sure.

IMO we need to keep Wade here as long as we can.

edit note a name to add to the mix:
John Pagano DC for the Chargers, he has worked with Wade with the Chargers, might not be a fit, but then again...

[painekiller]

Added a few names to the watch list, give me some more names to add.
Added names are in green.



Matt Barkley QB Southern California Sr 6-1 218
Landry Jones QB Oklahoma rSr 6-4 230
Tyler Wilson QB Arkansas rSr 6-3 220
Logan Thomas QB Virginia Tech Jr 6-5 254
Tyler Bray QB Tennessee Jr 6-6 210

Montee Ball RB Wisconsin Sr 5-09 212
Knile Davis RB Arkansas Sr 6-0 226
Marcus Lattimore RB South Carolina 5-11 233hurt
Joseph Randle RB Oklahoma St. 6-0 191
Theo Riddick RB Notre Dame 5' 11" 198

Da'Rick Rogers WR Tennessee Jr 6-2 215
Robert Woods WR USC Jr 6-1 181
Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205

Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame Jr 6-6 249

James Hurst OT North Carolina Jr 6-6 313
Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M Jr 6-5 310
Morgan Moses OT Virginia Jr 6-5 335
Taylor Lewan OT Michigan Jr 6-7 305
Jake Matthews OT Texas A&M 6-5 305
Zach Martin OT Notre Dame 6' 4" 280

Alex Okafor OLB/DE Texas Sr 6-4 260
Jackson Jeffcoat OLB/DE Texas Jr 6-5 253
Barkevious Mingo OLB LSU Jr 6-4 245
Corey Lemonier OLB Auburn Jr 6-3 242
Sam Montgomery OLB LSU Jr 6-4 245
William Gholston DE Michigan ST Jr 6-7 280
Bjoern Werner* DE Florida State 6' 4" 273
Lerentee McCray OLB Florida 6' 3" 249

Kawann Short DT Purdue rSr 6-3 310
Star Lotulelei DT Utah Sr 6-3 325
Johnathan Hankins DT Ohio St Jr 6-3 335
Spencer Nealy DT Texas A&M Sr 6-5 277

Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame Sr 6-2 255 love this kid and we no shot at him
Kevin Reddick ILB North Carolina Sr 6-2 240
Chase Thomas ILB/ OLB Stanford rSr 6-4 240
Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
*Kevin Minter ILB LSU rJr 6-1 245

T.J. McDonald FS Southern California Sr 6-2 205
Shawn Williams SS Georgia 6' 1" 220
Bacarri Rambo FS Georgia 6' 1" 208

Tyrann Mathieu CB LSU Jr 5-9 185
David Amerson CB NC St. Jr 6-3 194
Tharold Simon CB LSU Jr 6-3 188
Xavier Rhodes CB Florida St Jr 6-2 210
Carrington Byndom CB Texas Jr 6-0 181

[painekiller]

32 Stedman Bailey* WR West Virginia 5' 10" 190
62 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
94 Jamie Collins OLB Southern Miss 6' 3" 239
126 Brad Madison DE Missouri 6' 4" 250
158 Russell Shepard RB LSU 6' 1" 188
190 Taylor Reed ILB Southern Methodist 5' 11" 215

Decent enough mock for this time of year.

My attempt:

32 Bjoern Werner* DE Florida State 6' 4" 273.
62 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Lerentee McCray OLB Florida 6' 3" 249
158 Theo Riddick RB Notre Dame 5' 11" 198
190 Marcus Davis WR Virginia Tech Sr 6'4" 232
222 Spencer Nealy NT Texas A&M 6'4" 280

Cheated a little bit, can you find it? Werner is a big play maker when big plays are needed, sound familiar? He has the size to groom into a DE in this system.

[painekiller]

31 Houston Texans: Matt Elam, S, Florida
Glover Quin is a free agent this upcoming offseason. It'll be difficult to retain him with Connor Barwin also hitting the market. Besides, Houston needs a boost in the secondary after allowing Chad Henne and Matthew Stafford to torch them in a span of five days.

Pick change; previously Tavon Austin, WR
61 Houston Texans: Cobi Hamilton, WR, Arkansas
The Texans have needed a No. 2 receiver for years, but now that Andre Johnson is into his 30s, it won't be long before they have to secure a new No. 1 wideout for Matt Schaub.

Pick change; previously Oday Aboushi, OT

93 Houston Texans: Brian Winters, OT, Kent State
The Texans were interested in bringing in a right tackle early in the 2012 NFL Draft, but they never got the chance. Well, here's their opportunity. The position will have to be addressed if the currently injured Rashad Butler can't properly fill in for Eric Winston.

Pick change; previously Phillip Thomas, S

I don't disagree with taking a S and a WR in the early part of this upcoming draft, but I have been impressed with the growth that Newton has shown. Especially when I factor in the learning curve that Brown had to undergo, Newton played at a small school and had a huge jump up in quality of talent he was playing against. Not saying he is All Pro, but he is doing well.

That all said, If I was doing these picks I would go with Barrett Jones, G/C/OT, Alabama (who they take 32), and then I would run to the podium with the Cobi Hamilton pick at 62. I would address Safety, NT or ILB in the 3rd.

Jones can play all 5 positions on the OL, he has started and excelled at LT and OC at Bama. He, Jones and Brooks would give you versatility in the OL.

[painekiller]

32 DeAndre Hopkins* WR Clemson 6' 2" 194
62 Oday Aboushi OT Virginia 6' 6" 310
94 Desmond Trufant CB Washington 6' 0" 172.
126 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
158 Tobias Smith OG Mississippi State 6' 3" 305
190 Mario Benavides OC Louisville 6' 4" 304

Not a bad mock and not a great one either. To many OL prospects to go along with the young OL talent currently on the team.

32 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
62 Prentiss Waggner CB Tennessee 6' 2" 181
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Devon Kennard DE USC 6' 3" 255
158 Cameron Marshall RB Arizona State 5' 11" 217
190 Michael Williams TE Alabama 6-5 272

[Nconroe]

Right now your mock looks reasonable to me.

I agree OL likely ok with some experience.

A Wilfork type DT seems hard to find.

[painekiller]

32 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
62 Nico Johnson OLB Alabama 6' 3" 238
94 Tyrann Mathieu* CB LSU 5' 9" 180
126 Jake Olson OT Central Michigan 6' 8" 290
158 Kerwynn Williams RB Utah State 5' 9" 185
190 Datone Jones DE UCLA 6' 4" 275
222 Kaleb Ramsey DT Boston College 6' 3" 288

This is one way the draft could play out.

[HPF Bob]

Getting Honey Badger in the third would upgrade the return game and he'd be an exceptional nickel back. That would be a great pickup in the third.

[painekiller]

Getting Honey Badger in the third would upgrade the return game and he'd be an exceptional nickel back. That would be a great pickup in the third.

He would have to ace his interview, his continued drug issues are not the type of things the Texans overlook. One time issues and contrite responses work for the Texans, but Mathieu has not been working with his team, and he has had issues since his rehab, does not look like a Texans type guy.

[painekiller]

32 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
62 Nico Johnson OLB Alabama 6' 3" 238
94 Tyrann Mathieu* CB LSU 5' 9" 180
126 Jake Olson OT Central Michigan 6' 8" 290
158 Kerwynn Williams RB Utah State 5' 9" 185
190 Datone Jones DE UCLA 6' 4" 275
222 Kaleb Ramsey DT Boston College 6' 3" 288

This is one way the draft could play out.

Not a bad mock, so I am looking at this from a different place. Tried to come up with some different names. Overall they are new names but some I have not used in a while.

32 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
62 Devin Taylor DE South Carolina 6' 7" 265 (a little early for this DE project, needs to add weight and strength)
94 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
126 Cameron Marshall RB Arizona State 5' 11" 217
158 Devon Kennard OLB USC 6' 3" 255
190 Dan Buckner WR Arizona 6' 4" 215 (character flag, arrested for criminal trespass transferred and has been clean since)
222 Michael Williams TE Alabama 6'6" 270

[HPF Bob]

Buckner is the former Longhorn that had some problems one spring and was dropped/transferred. Big target. Not elite speed. Average hands. He's a matchup problem for most college DBs but I'm not sure he would be anything special in the NFL.

[painekiller]

Buckner is the former Longhorn that had some problems one spring and was dropped/transferred. Big target. Not elite speed. Average hands. He's a matchup problem for most college DBs but I'm not sure he would be anything special in the NFL.

And a flyer in the 6th round by a team that will not be very easy for anyone to make if they are picked after the 4th round. His crime was a criminal trespass in College Station, as you stated he went to UT, he was suspended by the longhorns and he transferred, sat out in Arizona, his red shirt year he was voted Scout team player of the year by his teammates, so he stayed in football and worked hard to put an incident behind him.

Honey Badger has been suspended by his team, could have transferred, choose not to, re-enrolled at LSU, then was arrested again for having high grade weed in his apartment. He has been away from football, and has continued a pattern of trouble with weed, and the law. Being a junior he can not play in any of the scout games after the season.

[HPF Bob]

Understood the difference between a third-rounder and a sixth rounder. It's just that Mathieu would be a first-rounder without the red flags and Buckner might be a fourth-rounder without the red flags. Lower risk but lower reward.

[painekiller]

Understood the difference between a third-rounder and a sixth rounder. It's just that Mathieu would be a first-rounder without the red flags and Buckner might be a fourth-rounder without the red flags. Lower risk but lower reward.

I agree, in fact Mathieu could have been a top 15 pick, his height is not ideal, and he could not stop his demons. I am having PacMan flashes with him. If he can stay under control he could be a huge steal. But that is a big if.

[HPF Bob]

I'm not disagreeing. A team that has good depth and the team has a few strong leaders that can keep a young player in line, can take that chance in the third round. I compare it to when Denver drafted Maurice Clarett. If you can accept that you might have just drafted a bust, you can take the gamble. Clarett did become a bust but he might also have been great.

[painekiller]

Found another top 200 draft stock list: National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFPS-Top-200-Draft-Prospects-5904.html?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed)

Using their rankings I could see the Texans having a draft like the following

1 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6'2" 201
2 Shayne Skove ILB Stanford 6'1" 245
3a Bacarri Rambo FS Georgia 6' 206
3b Blidi Wrey-Wilson CB UConn 6' 190
4 John Jenkins NT Georgia 6'4" 363
5a Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6'6" 255
5b La'Veon Bell RB Michigan St 6'2" 245

This would be a huge draft IMO. Williams is a solid 2 and a future 1, would give us a great young pair(added to Posey) of WR to help lengthen AJ career. Skove is a prototype for 3-4 ILB. Rambo is ball hawk, Wrey-Wilson is a raw prospect who has solid man coverage skills. Jenkins is a top 50 player shocked they have him this low, but he gives the Texans a presence in the middle like they have never had. Fauria has soft hands, is a huge target for the red zone, and a willing blocker. Bell is a power back who could be special with some coaching.

[nunusguy]

Found another top 200 draft stock list: National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFPS-Top-200-Draft-Prospects-5904.html?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed)

Using their rankings I could see the Texans having a draft like the following

1 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6'2" 201
2 Shayne Skove ILB Stanford 6'1" 245
3a Bacarri Rambo FS Georgia 6' 206
3b Blidi Wrey-Wilson CB UConn 6' 190
4 John Jenkins NT Georgia 6'4" 363
5a Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6'6" 255
5b La'Veon Bell RB Michigan St 6'2" 245

This would be a huge draft IMO. Williams is a solid 2 and a future 1, would give us a great young pair(added to Posey) of WR to help lengthen AJ career. Skove is a prototype for 3-4 ILB. Rambo is ball hawk, Wrey-Wilson is a raw prospect who has solid man coverage skills. Jenkins is a top 50 player shocked they have him this low, but he gives the Texans a presence in the middle like they have never had. Fauria has soft hands, is a huge target for the red zone, and a willing blocker. Bell is a power back who could be special with some coaching.
Good looking Draft there PK, except where's your RT ? Most everybody has us taking a tackle prospect in the first or second round to play on the right side.

[HPF Bob]

This doesn't seem too realistic. Bell, in particular, shouldn't last until the fifth. He's a workhorse and a load although I think he's a step slow for the NFL, some of these guys still make it work.

[painekiller]

This doesn't seem too realistic. Bell, in particular, shouldn't last until the fifth. He's a workhorse and a load although I think he's a step slow for the NFL, some of these guys still make it work.

I agree on the does not seem realistic, but hey it is someones list that looks like a national writer. I would be happy if our draft fell like this.

And for nunusguy, no I do not see us needing to go with a RT in early part of the draft, I think we are looking ok at RT, Newton has started to look pretty solid. And I also hope we resign Ryan Harris, though Andrew Gardner look ok in limited play. That would give us three decent tackles. More than most teams, and don't forget Mondek is still on the practice squad, if he is able to make the jump he has the potential to be a nice swing guy also. That is 5 OTs, and don't forget Brooks can play RT in a pinch. I don't see the Texans going tackle unless a really good one slides to them.

[painekiller]

And for nunusguy, no I do not see us needing to go with a RT in early part of the draft, I think we are looking ok at RT, Newton has started to look pretty solid. And I also hope we resign Ryan Harris, though Andrew Gardner look ok in limited play. That would give us three decent tackles. More than most teams, and don't forget Mondek is still on the practice squad, if he is able to make the jump he has the potential to be a nice swing guy also. That is 5 OTs, and don't forget Brooks can play RT in a pinch. I don't see the Texans going tackle unless a really good one slides to them.

I am really having to rethink the OL after the game today...

[painekiller]

31 Akeem Spence* DT Illinois 6' 1" 305
61 Alvin Bailey* OG Arkansas 6' 5" 319
93 Tavarres King WR Georgia 6' 1" 184
125 Kenny Tate OLB Maryland 6' 4" 220
157 B.W. Webb CB William & Mary 5' 11" 160
189 Dustin Hopkins K Florida State 6' 2" 183
221 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240

[HPF Bob]

If we don't reach the Super Bowl, our 1-3 collapse will help our draft position slightly. Not that I'd trade, mind you.

Anyone see WR Marquis Goodwin in the Alamo Bowl? I wouldn't mind spending a second or third on him, particularly since he would make a better KR than Martin. He's got that extra gear like Jacoby Jones but he's a much smarter kid.

[painekiller]

29 Akeem Spence* DT Illinois 6' 1" 305
59 Brian Winters OT Kent State 6' 6" 294
91 Omoregie Uzzi OG Georgia Tech 6' 3" 300
123 Zach Line FB Southern Methodist 6' 1" 235
155 Brandon Sharpe DE Syracuse 6' 1" 255
187 Reid Fragel OT Ohio State 6' 8" 298
219 Josh Evans S Florida 6' 1" 195

[painekiller]

29 Matt Elam* S Florida 5' 10" 199
59 T.J. McDonald S USC 6' 2" 205
91 Braxston Cave OC Notre Dame 6' 3" 303
123 Ryan Swope WR Texas A&M 6' 0" 204
155 Chris Jones DT Bowling Green 6' 2" 290
187 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205
219 Rod Sweeting CB Georgia Tech 6' 0" 184

Not a very good mock IMO.

[Blitzwood]

29 Matt Elam* S Florida 5' 10" 199
59 T.J. McDonald S USC 6' 2" 205
91 Braxston Cave OC Notre Dame 6' 3" 303
123 Ryan Swope WR Texas A&M 6' 0" 204
155 Chris Jones DT Bowling Green 6' 2" 290
187 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205
219 Rod Sweeting CB Georgia Tech 6' 0" 184

Not a very good mock IMO.

I agree 100%!

What do u think about:

29. Jonathan Banks CB Miss St 6'2" 200
59. Ezekiel Ansah 3-4DE BYU 6'6" 275
75*. Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tenn 6'3" 205
91. Robert Lester S Alabama 6'2" 210
123. Jamie Collins OLB/ILB S. Miss 6'3" 239
155. Mike Gillislee Florida RB 5'11" 209
187. Braden Brown OT BYU 6'5" 302
219. Greg Blair ILB Cinn 6'2" 240


*Ben Tate trade to New Orleans.

[Nconroe]

Agree it was a lousy mock posted from draftsite on 1.8

On your alternates, I'm good with first two picks.

Rest maybe ok, but early.

Doesn't N.O. already have like 4 RB's ?

[painekiller]

I agree 100%!

What do u think about:

29. Jonathan Banks CB Miss St 6'2" 200
59. Ezekiel Ansah 3-4DE BYU 6'6" 275
75*. Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tenn 6'3" 205
91. Robert Lester S Alabama 6'2" 210
123. Jamie Collins OLB/ILB S. Miss 6'3" 239
155. Mike Gillislee Florida RB 5'11" 209
187. Braden Brown OT BYU 6'5" 302
219. Greg Blair ILB Cinn 6'2" 240


*Ben Tate trade to New Orleans.

Yours is better then theirs was by far. Another way this could go:

29 Cobi Hamilton WR Arkansas 6' 3" 209
59 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
91 Shayne Skov ILB Stanford 6' 3" 242
123 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
155 Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6' 8" 252
187 Josh Dworaczyk OG LSU 6' 6" 295
219 Sanders Commings CB Georgia 6' 2" 216

And I agree with Nconroe, don't the Saints have a stable of backs? And does Tate have any value with his track record of being hurt 2 of his 3 years?

[Blitzwood]

Not a bad one PK.

As for the Tate trade, We know the Texans are
gonna make some trade(s), it's anybody's guess who or what it involves. That said, I believe Tate would be an upgrade to Pierre Thomas, but they do have 4 RB's on their roster NC, point taken.

I would trade Tate for a third rounder (or fourth rounder for that matter)and attempt to draft a RB in the later rounds. The more I look at this draft class, the better I feel about the talent coming out this year, besides QB.

[painekiller]

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
57 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199
89 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
121 Brennan Williams OT UNC 6' 7" 315
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240
217 Terrence Brown* CB Stanford 6' 1" 178

This is not a bad one. I would be happy with Williams at 27. Don't see Jefferson's as the prototype safety size wise that they look for. I was not impressed by Williams pass rush. So I might go this way

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 2053
57 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
89 Robert Lester S Alabama 6' 2" 207
121 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Michael Williams TE Alabama 6-5 272
217 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205

[HPF Bob]

Maybe we could have an all-Williams draft...:eek:

[barrett]

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
57 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199
89 Jesse Williams DT Alabama 6' 4" 320
121 Brennan Williams OT UNC 6' 7" 315
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240
217 Terrence Brown* CB Stanford 6' 1" 178

This is not a bad one. I would be happy with Williams at 27. Don't see Jefferson's as the prototype safety size wise that they look for. I was not impressed by Williams pass rush. So I might go this way

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 2053
57 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
89 Robert Lester S Alabama 6' 2" 207
121 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Michael Williams TE Alabama 6-5 272
217 Nick Florence QB Baylor 6' 1" 205

But we're starting 2 former CBs at Safety (Manning and Quinn). With the development of the TE position, the rules on contact over the middle, and the lean towards passing in general, I think Safeties will get smaller and faster.

[painekiller]

But we're starting 2 former CBs at Safety (Manning and Quinn). With the development of the TE position, the rules on contact over the middle, and the lean towards passing in general, I think Safeties will get smaller and faster.

TE have been getting taller and faster, a mismatch problem for a smaller safety. When a 6'5" TE can put the 5'10" Safety on his hip and out reach the guy in the Red Zone, 4.3 speed will not be a factor.

Just watch Graham or Gronk play, they eat smaller safeties for lunch, and they out run LBs for dessert.

[barrett]

TE have been getting taller and faster, a mismatch problem for a smaller safety. When a 6'5" TE can put the 5'10" Safety on his hip and out reach the guy in the Red Zone, 4.3 speed will not be a factor.

Just watch Graham or Gronk play, they eat smaller safeties for lunch, and they out run LBs for dessert.

Quinn played great against TEs. He eliminated 6'6" Gresham in the wildcard round. You will not find guys who can compete size-wise with gronkowski and also run with him. The position is moving towards smaller guys (Quinn, McCourty, Woodson, and others all moved to safety this year to get more guys who can run and cover on the field).

[painekiller]

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
57 Kenny Vaccaro S Texas 6' 1" 215
89 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
121 Brennan Williams OT UNC 6' 7" 315
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Stansly Maponga* DE TCU 6' 2" 260
217 Travis Howard CB Ohio State 6' 0" 190

I could live with this one. I would make a few changes, but nothing earth shattering.

[Blitzwood]

27 Terrance Williams WR Baylor 6' 3" 205
57 Kenny Vaccaro S Texas 6' 1" 215
89 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
121 Brennan Williams OT UNC 6' 7" 315
153 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
185 Stansly Maponga* DE TCU 6' 2" 260
217 Travis Howard CB Ohio State 6' 0" 190

I could live with this one. I would make a few changes, but nothing earth shattering.



27. Cordarrelle Patterson* WR Tennessee 6' 3" 205
57. Dallas Thomas OT Tennessee 6' 5" 310
89. Gerald Hodges OLB Penn St 6' 2" 240
121. DeVonte Holloman S South Carolina 6' 2" 226
153. Robert Alford CB S.E. Louisiana 5' 11" 195
185. Vince Williams ILB Florid St 6' 1" 250
217. T.J. Johnson OC S. Carolina 6'6" 319

I thought the first was decent; my cherry pick. If only...

[painekiller]

27 Alec Ogletree* ILB Georgia 6' 3" 232
57 Dallas Thomas OT Tennessee 6' 5" 310
89 Tavarres King WR Georgia 6' 1" 184
121 Greg Reid CB Valdosta State 5' 9" 175
153 Chris Jones DT Bowling Green 6' 2" 290
185 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 11" 209
217 Ryan Otten TE San Jose State 6' 6" 245

I like Ogletree, but I am not sure he is big enough to be ILB for Wade. And I am not sure that OT is a top need.

27 Cordarrelle Patterson* WR Tennessee 6' 3" 205
57 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
89 Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
121 Nico Johnson ILB/OLB Alabama 6' 3" 238
153 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
185 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 11" 209
217 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280

I would have liked to get an OL at some point in this, but I failed to do so.

[chuck]

Man, I'm so down on this team that it's hard for me to get any clarity on where we are and what we need.

I'm with you in thinking that OT and even OL in general is not a real need. Cush is the only ILB on the field in nickel and dime so do you really want to go first overall on a guy who can only play a third of defensive snaps? I'd love to get a big, fast, athletic WR but I have no confidence that the head coach will use him or that the quarterback will find him.

I say DT or secondary or even OLB. We need to upgrade the Cody/Mitchell tandem, we need to upgrade JJo and we need to upgrade Barwin.

[painekiller]

Man, I'm so down on this team that it's hard for me to get any clarity on where we are and what we need.

I'm with you in thinking that OT and even OL in general is not a real need. Cush is the only ILB on the field in nickel and dime so do you really want to go first overall on a guy who can only play a third of defensive snaps? I'd love to get a big, fast, athletic WR but I have no confidence that the head coach will use him or that the quarterback will find him.

I say DT or secondary or even OLB. We need to upgrade the Cody/Mitchell tandem, we need to upgrade JJo and we need to upgrade Barwin.

You make a good case for a draft that looks more like this:

27 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
57 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
89 E.J. Manuel QB Florida State 6' 5" 234
121 Omoregie Uzzi OG Georgia Tech 6' 3" 300
153 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
185 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 11" 209
217 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280

[nunusguy]

217 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
01/02/13 - It was expected Utah defensive end Joe Kruger would follow his older brother Paul into the NFL given his talent. Apparently he wants to make that move sooner rather than later. The junior announced Wednesday he will enter the 2013 NFL draft. The 6-foot-7, 280-pound defensive end played in 37 of 38 games from 2010-12 with 14 starts. He finished the 2012 season with 30 tackles, including eight tackles for a loss and a team-high six sacks in 11 games.
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=109548&draftyear=2013&genpos=de
The Ravens OLB and soon to be rich young NFL FA Paul's big "little" brother Joe Kruger is a very interesting prospect and looks like a natural 3-4 DE with his size and length. Obviously he should stay school in another year, but he's probably a typical Mormon college guy who's a little older and wants to make some money before his time has passed. But besides size, with those sacks #s he appears to also be athletic.
Here's predicting he ends up going in the middle rounds and not towards the end of the Draft, though presently the Draft rating services also have him going very late.

[painekiller]

01/02/13 - It was expected Utah defensive end Joe Kruger would follow his older brother Paul into the NFL given his talent. Apparently he wants to make that move sooner rather than later. The junior announced Wednesday he will enter the 2013 NFL draft. The 6-foot-7, 280-pound defensive end played in 37 of 38 games from 2010-12 with 14 starts. He finished the 2012 season with 30 tackles, including eight tackles for a loss and a team-high six sacks in 11 games.
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=109548&draftyear=2013&genpos=de
The Ravens OLB and soon to be rich young NFL FA Paul's big "little" brother Joe Kruger is a very interesting prospect and looks like a natural 3-4 DE with his size and length. Obviously he should stay school in another year, but he's probably a typical Mormon college guy who's a little older and wants to make some money before his time has passed. But besides size, with those sacks #s he appears to also be athletic.
Here's predicting he ends up going in the middle rounds and not towards the end of the Draft, though presently the Draft rating services also have him going very late.

I agree with the article, I think he will go higher then the current rankings have him.

[Blitzwood]

27 Alec Ogletree* ILB Georgia 6' 3" 232
57 Dallas Thomas OT Tennessee 6' 5" 310
89 Tavarres King WR Georgia 6' 1" 184
121 Greg Reid CB Valdosta State 5' 9" 175
153 Chris Jones DT Bowling Green 6' 2" 290
185 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 11" 209
217 Ryan Otten TE San Jose State 6' 6" 245



Our team needs are wide and plenty, here's a mock with compensatory picks in 3rd and 5th rounds.

1. Xavier Rhodes* CB Florida State 6' 1" 206
GQ gets a huge offer elsewhere and we're forced to moved K. Jax to safety, therefore CB trumps all other positions. We could take a safety here, but Wade wisely goes with a CB and selects the best on the board.

2. Da'Rick Rogers Tennessee Tech 6' 3" 215
With so many question marks at WR next year regarding Posey and company, Kubes' takes a very good WR in the second round.

3. Bennie Logan* DT LSU 6' 3" 295
With S. Cody on the decline, we take another NT to rotate with Earl Mitchell. Logan may need to add 10-15 pounds, but can rush the passer and defend the run admirably and is a steal in the third.

3b. Alvin Bailey OG Arkansas 6' 5" 319
The right side is still a work in progress and Bailey's depth will be needed if Caldwell doesn't return next year. The mammoth Bailey played RG at Arkansas and was regarded as one of the best interior linemen in the SEC in 2012.

4. Gerald Hodges OLB/ILB Penn State 6' 2" 234
Hodges provides depth and insurance at ILB, especially if Cushing loses some mobility/speed after knee sugery. Had multiple 100tkl seasons at Penn St, aka Linebacker U.

5. Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 215
While Forsett played well last season, Michael is too good to pass up in the 5th round.

5b. Chris Faulk OT LSU 6' 6" 316
Was second team All SEC prior to his knee injury in September 2012.

6. Duke Williams S Nevada 6' 1" 185
Productive DB with some kickoff return potential on ST.

7. Philip Lutzenkirchen TE Auburn 6' 5" 255
Thought about Michael Williams of Alabama here, but went with the better (route runner/hands) TE, never know if he may need to step up and play more due to injuries. If he can prove he's healthy post hip surgery, his versatility could really help this team.

I still think we'll sign some UD ILB's.

[painekiller]

PreCombine mock. I've been trying to think outside the box, and looking at the needs of the team. This can be refined once FA opens in March, then we can see who is back and who is gone.

What would you guys think about a draft like this?


1st Zach Ertz TE Stanford 6' 6" 245
2nd Barrett Jones OC Alabama 6' 4" 301
3rd Cobi Hamilton WR Arkansas 6' 3" 209
3rd sup A T.J. McDonald S USC 6' 2" 205
4th Zac Dysert QB Miami (Ohio) 6' 3" 215
5th A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
5th sup B Stansly Maponga* DE TCU 6' 2" 260
5th sup C Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 11" 209
6th Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
7th Michael Williams TE Alabama 6-6 269
7th sup D John Boyett FS Oregon 5-10 205

Sup A = Mario
Sup B = Brisiel
Sup C = Dreessen
Sup D = Allen

[painekiller]

Our team needs are wide and plenty, here's a mock with compensatory picks in 3rd and 5th rounds.

1. Xavier Rhodes* CB Florida State 6' 1" 206
GQ gets a huge offer elsewhere and we're forced to moved K. Jax to safety, therefore CB trumps all other positions. We could take a safety here, but Wade wisely goes with a CB and selects the best on the board.

2. Da'Rick Rogers Tennessee Tech 6' 3" 215
With so many question marks at WR next year regarding Posey and company, Kubes' takes a very good WR in the second round.

3. Bennie Logan* DT LSU 6' 3" 295
With S. Cody on the decline, we take another NT to rotate with Earl Mitchell. Logan may need to add 10-15 pounds, but can rush the passer and defend the run admirably and is a steal in the third.

3b. Alvin Bailey OG Arkansas 6' 5" 319
The right side is still a work in progress and Bailey's depth will be needed if Caldwell doesn't return next year. The mammoth Bailey played RG at Arkansas and was regarded as one of the best interior linemen in the SEC in 2012.

4. Gerald Hodges OLB/ILB Penn State 6' 2" 234
Hodges provides depth and insurance at ILB, especially if Cushing loses some mobility/speed after knee sugery. Had multiple 100tkl seasons at Penn St, aka Linebacker U.

5. Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 215
While Forsett played well last season, Michael is too good to pass up in the 5th round.

5b. Chris Faulk OT LSU 6' 6" 316
Was second team All SEC prior to his knee injury in September 2012.

6. Duke Williams S Nevada 6' 1" 185
Productive DB with some kickoff return potential on ST.

7. Philip Lutzenkirchen TE Auburn 6' 5" 255
Thought about Michael Williams of Alabama here, but went with the better (route runner/hands) TE, never know if he may need to step up and play more due to injuries. If he can prove he's healthy post hip surgery, his versatility could really help this team.

I still think we'll sign some UD ILB's.

I like this draft

[Nconroe]

Has NFL announced when we will know which compensatory picks we actually get.

Should be pretty soon.

That would be nice to get four.

[painekiller]

Has NFL announced when we will know which compensatory picks we actually get.

Should be pretty soon.

That would be nice to get four.

In the past they have announced the picks in late March

[painekiller]

27 Alec Ogletree* ILB Georgia 6' 3" 232
57 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
89 Marcus Davis WR Virginia Tech 6' 4" 232
121 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
153 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
185 Terry Hawthorne CB Illinois 6' 0" 190
217 T.J. Johnson OC South Carolina 6' 4" 314

I'm not sure about this one. Ogletree is a true talent on the field, but he is high risk off the field. He can cover and he can tackle. He is on the light size for what I have seen Wade use, so I don't know that he is an option. Jenkins is a huge man, and Gary tends to steer away from huge men. I hope he drops to the 57 pick and we take him. Davis is also a question mark, he is not a high motor guy, and he is not a willing blocker.

I like all three of these guys, I just don't think the Texans will want them.

27 Tavon Austin WR West Virginia 5' 9" 173
57 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
89 Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6' 8" 252
121 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
153 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
185 Bruce Taylor ILB Virginia Tech 6' 2" 246
217 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280

Austin is a matchup nightmare, and he is a tough guy. Not the ideal height and weight, but in the slot the other team will have issues with him. I like the idea of a big man in the middle for a change. Fauria will give rare red zone height. Williams is a strong leader and is always around the ball. Klein is a tackling machine, and Taylor is going to be one year removed from a lisfranc injury, could be a steal. No way Kruger last long, can he?

[Blitzwood]

27 Alec Ogletree* ILB Georgia 6' 3" 232
57 John Jenkins DT Georgia 6' 4" 350
89 Marcus Davis WR Virginia Tech 6' 4" 232
121 Xavier Nixon OT Florida 6' 5" 300
153 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
185 Terry Hawthorne CB Illinois 6' 0" 190
217 T.J. Johnson OC South Carolina 6' 4" 314

While not the worst, it's not the direction I see the Texans going in.

1. Justin Hunter* WR Tennessee 6' 4" 196
2012 Second team All-SEC. With Schaub's accuracy in question, Hunter gives him a huge radius receiver to throw to... 4.4 speed and another reason will come later that helps this decision. The comparisons to J. Jones and AJ Green don't hurt either...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE6GXID2dXk He had 73 receptions, 1083 yards, and 9 td's, on a loaded Tennessee team last year.

2. Brandon Jenkins OLB Florida State 6' 3" 251
Jenkins would have been a top 15 pick this year if not for his foot injury(lis franc) at the beginnig of the season. If he performs well at his proday, and with the impending move of Brooks Reed to ILB , I believe Jenkins will be a Texan if he's still on the board. That will give us a Barwin(if resigned), Mercilus, and Jenkins rotation. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYECkG3qJmM

3a. Tyler Bray* QB Tennessee 6' 6" 210
This kid really impressed at the combine and has alot of good tape out there(Like the one above with Justin Hunter on the receiving end). He's young and can be groomed as the potential starter in a year or two, barring any injury to Schaub....Has the height and arm strength Kubiak usually looks for in a QB.

3b. Da'Rick Rogers* WR Tennessee Tech 6' 3" 217
2011 First team All-SEC. Talented, tough receiver that played with Hunter and Bray at Tennessee before being dissmissed from the team. There are some character concerns, but taking the risk in the middle rounds on his type of talent could well be worth it. If he can stay out of trouble, we'd have secured one of the most coveted WR / QB trio's in recent memory. If Hunter hadn't hurt his knee and Rogers not get booted from the team later, who knows how far they would have gone in 2011 and 2012. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BHOXRyDLuw

4. David Quessenberry OT San Jose State 6' 5" 302
Butler is released, Newton has new competition for RT now.

5. Jordan Hill DT Penn State 6' 1" 297
Nonstop motor, stout against the run. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJcbDCuStPs

6. D.J. Swearinger S South Carolina 6' 0" 210
Say goodbye Keo. Manning is 31.

6b. A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240 or Nico Johnson ILB Alabama 6' 2" 245

7. Quinton Dial 3-4DE Alabama 6' 5" 300
Nick Saban coached DL with two Championships.

UDFA- Cameron Lawrence LB Mississippi St. 6' 3" 240
(over 120 tackles in each of the last two season in the SEC)

[painekiller]

27 Matt Elam* S Florida 5' 10" 199
57 Quinton Patton WR Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 195
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 Marquise Goodwin WR Texas 5' 9" 180
124 Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 215
160 Malliciah Goodman DE Clemson 6' 4" 280
195 Josh Evans S Florida 6' 1" 195
201 Quanterus Smith DE Western Kentucky 6' 5" 244
233 Ryan Allen PT Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 215

We finally have the supplemental picks in and a new mock that reflect those picks.

My take:
27 Desmond Trufant CB Washington 6' 0" 172
57 Ryan Swope WR Texas A&M 6' 0" 204
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6' 8" 252
124 Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 220
160 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
195 Robert Lester S Alabama 6' 2" 207
201 Oday Aboushi OT Virginia 6' 6" 310
233 Spencer Nealy DT Texas A&M 6' 5" 277

I never intended to have this many Aggies in my mock, it just happened that way. Trufant is a very solid kid, he could allow the Texans to move Jackson to Safety. Swope was BPA at a position of need, he has great hands, run precise routes, and he has deceptive speed. I took Thomas due to the fact that I have been mocking him to the Texans almost all season. I think he can be both a OLB and a ILB in our system. Fauria is a huge red zone target. Michaels, he knows the scheme, and they need a #3 RB. Klein is a tackling machine. Lester has really dropped, he was projected to be an early round Safety for most of the season, Aboushi was also projected in the 3rd on many boards, and Nealy is a why not pick.

[painekiller]

27 Matt Elam* S Florida 5' 10" 199
57 Quinton Patton WR Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 195
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 Marquise Goodwin WR Texas 5' 9" 180
124 Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 215
160 Malliciah Goodman DE Clemson 6' 4" 280
195 Josh Evans S Florida 6' 1" 195
201 Quanterus Smith DE Western Kentucky 6' 5" 244
233 Ryan Allen PT Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 215



I should have said in the prior post that I like this mock overall for the Texans, I really like Goodwin in the 3rd, would be OK with a Safety and WR in the top 60 picks.

If I had my way we would trade out of the 1st and get another 2nd round pick, three 2nd round picks would help the team rebuild quality depth quickly.

[Roy P]

I'm wondering if I'm in the minority with this, but I would not be opposed to drafting EJ Manuel in the first round to sit a year behind Schaub. This kid s the skills to run Kubiak's offense in my opinion. For the record, I'm a Schaub fan. It just looks like this could be an upgrade at the most important position. Assuming of course, he's still on the board.

[Nconroe]

interesting thought, guess I'd be ok with that draft pick if it occurred.

for sure hadn't considered it before mentioned.

Likely he won't be there at 27 is my guess.

I guess we don't need an impact starter in round 1 or 2 this year?

[Roy P]

I guess we don't need an impact starter in round 1 or 2 this year?

Well, I'd like a RT, but I think Fisher & Johnson will be off the board. So, I might get Quessenberry later in the draft. I'd like a CB, but think we might be able to get Poyer, Slay, or Amerson in the 2nd round. Not really high on any of the WR prospects but would go after Swope or maybe Conner Vernon to replace K. Walter. My OLB to replace Barwin is Cornelius Washington, and I've seen him in the 5th round. I also like NT Josh Boyd, who is another later round guy. The odd man out is ILB. I love the idea of having Zaviar Gooden, but I'm not sure the Texans would go for him if Ryan Swope were there in the 3rd round, but maybe for the Compensatory pick? So, maybe a guy like Ty Powell would be available. Just mocking the possibilities after taking a QB in the 1st round.

1st - QB EJ Manuel - Fla St.
2nd - CB Darius Slay - Miss St.
3rd - WR Ryan Swope - Tx A&M
3rd - ILB Zaviar Gooden - Missouri
4th - RT David Quessenberry - San Jose St.
5th - OLB Cornelius Washington - UGa
6th - WR Aaron Mellette - Elon
6th - NT Josh Boyd - Miss St
7th - TE Michael Williams - Ala

By the way, I love WR Da'Rick Rogers (3rd round?) but he scares me b/c I think he might be a knucklehead like T.O. or Jacoby Jones. It will be interesting to watch his career. So, I gambled on two WRs in this draft.

[painekiller]

I'd be ok with EJ, just not sure I would pick him in the 1st. I was looking at him before he started to rise up boards. I do like him and believe he is the guy that fits the new style mode of an athletic guy with a strong arm.

I would be shocked if they took him in the 1st. McNair is on record saying he wants more outside speed, not that he has ever given away the teams board predraft. So no telling which direction they will go.

[Roy P]

In January I wanted him in the 3rd round, like a Russell Wilson steal. Yet, as we get closer to the draft, all my "steals" start moving up the board t become more realistic. I don't think the Texans will draft him, and I'm not sure he'll even be available.

[Roy P]

27 Matt Elam* S Florida 5' 10" 199
57 Quinton Patton WR Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 195
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 Marquise Goodwin WR Texas 5' 9" 180
124 Christine Michael RB Texas A&M 5' 11" 215
160 Malliciah Goodman DE Clemson 6' 4" 280
195 Josh Evans S Florida 6' 1" 195
201 Quanterus Smith DE Western Kentucky 6' 5" 244
233 Ryan Allen PT Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 215



Looked today and thought about this

WR DeAndre Hopkins Clemson
QB EJ Manuel Fla St
CB DJ Hayden Houston (Don't see him lasting this long)
OT David Quessenberry San Jose St
OLB Devin Taylor S. Carolina
FS Josh Evans Florida (The "other" S from Florida)
NT Josh Boyd Miss St.
CB Darius Slay Miss St. (I'd be very surprised if Slay is not at least a 3rd round pick)

[painekiller]

Looked today and thought about this

WR DeAndre Hopkins Clemson
QB EJ Manuel Fla St
CB DJ Hayden Houston (Don't see him lasting this long)
OT David Quessenberry San Jose St
OLB Devin Taylor S. Carolina
FS Josh Evans Florida (The "other" S from Florida)
NT Josh Boyd Miss St.
CB Darius Slay Miss St. (I'd be very surprised if Slay is not at least a 3rd round pick)

Could we be looking at Honeybadger in the 3rd round?

[Roy P]

I would not draft The Honeybadger until the 4th round after everyone else sent him a msg that he needs to clean up his act.

[painekiller]

27 D.J. Fluker* OT Alabama 6' 6" 340
57 Quinton Patton WR Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 195
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 John Simon DE Ohio State 6' 2" 260
124 Levine Toilolo* TE Stanford 6' 8" 263
160 Duke Williams S Nevada 6' 1" 185
195 Shamarko Thomas S Syracuse 5' 10" 206
201 Mario Benavides OC Louisville 6' 4" 304
233 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240


Not exactly a bad mock, nor a great mock. It's solid.

This is my 1st mock since the recent signings.

27 D.J. Fluker* OT Alabama 6' 6" 340
57 Ryan Swope WR Texas A&M 6' 0" 204
89 Landry Jones QB Oklahoma 6' 4" 216
95 Kiko Alonso ILB Oregon 6' 4" 242
124 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
160 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
195 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 9" 209
201 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
233 Aaron Mellette WR Elon 6' 3" 211

Newton's injury is a bugger to recover from and he is not going to be at OTA's, Fluker would give the Texans a huge right side, assuming that Brooks is the RG next season. Fluker will need coaching work, so Ryan Harris maybe a vet stop gap. Swope is a shorter faster version of Walters, IMO.

For the 3rd round pick I wanted to throw a new name into the mix, I like EJ Manuel but he is climbing higher than I am comfortable taking him with all the teams needs. So what do you guys think of Jones as a developmental guy? Might be the type player that would benefit from being on a Kubiak team.

Now it's time for defense, two ILBs and a safety, this is where I believe we see the Ed Reed player/coach really payoff. Reed learned to break down tape from Ray Ray, and now he can pass that onto these three guys. Kruger has the look of a OLB in Wade's system.

As for Taylor, he is compact back that looks like a good fit. Mellette is a why not type pick.

[popanot]

If the Texans feel EJ Manuel has the potential to take over and be a franchise QB then they should pull the trigger at #57 if he's there. I highly doubt he'll be there at #89. There's obviously some risk with any QB prospect, but if EJ can develop and throw with some decent accuracy I think he'd be deadly in Kubiak's scheme. I'd love to see what a QB with some size and speed can do in this offense. I think the threat of tucking and running on those open boots when nothing's available downfield is a huge missing piece of this O.

[Joe Joe]

I've not paid too much attention to college football or scouting reports this past year, but when I did...I thought Jenkins from Georgia was a first rounder even though he needs to lose 20,30 pounds. I know the Texans have gone with smaller NTs in the past and I've generally been happy with the production this way. Last season, the Texans played a lot of dime coverage and the good teams just gashed the Texans defense with interior runs. Cushing back will help, but he works best when he doesn't have to shed too many blocks. Granted, I may be rating Jenkins higher because I think he addresses the biggest need for Texans defense....ability to defend interior running lanes while in dime coverage.

I would love to see Jenkins, Watt, and Mercilus next to each other.

If Jenkins is truly a second round talent, I hope the Texans trade back from first and get an extra pick. Would not be disappointed in getting Williams from Alabama, either.

On the QB front, if there is a guy that is obtainable that fits the system...you get them in the first. Schaub isn't getting younger. TJ is a nice backup.

[barrett]

I've not paid too much attention to college football or scouting reports this past year, but when I did...I thought Jenkins from Georgia was a first rounder even though he needs to lose 20,30 pounds. I know the Texans have gone with smaller NTs in the past and I've generally been happy with the production this way. Last season, the Texans played a lot of dime coverage and the good teams just gashed the Texans defense with interior runs. Cushing back will help, but he works best when he doesn't have to shed too many blocks. Granted, I may be rating Jenkins higher because I think he addresses the biggest need for Texans defense....ability to defend interior running lanes while in dime coverage.

I would love to see Jenkins, Watt, and Mercilus next to each other.

If Jenkins is truly a second round talent, I hope the Texans trade back from first and get an extra pick. Would not be disappointed in getting Williams from Alabama, either.

On the QB front, if there is a guy that is obtainable that fits the system...you get them in the first. Schaub isn't getting younger. TJ is a nice backup.
What good team gashed us? Every game we lost was to a team that primarily threw the ball.

[painekiller]

If the Texans feel EJ Manuel has the potential to take over and be a franchise QB then they should pull the trigger at #57 if he's there. I highly doubt he'll be there at #89. There's obviously some risk with any QB prospect, but if EJ can develop and throw with some decent accuracy I think he'd be deadly in Kubiak's scheme. I'd love to see what a QB with some size and speed can do in this offense. I think the threat of tucking and running on those open boots when nothing's available downfield is a huge missing piece of this O.

I'm seeing Manual going as early as the 1st round. And I do not think the Texans can afford to go with him that early. I agree with you, I think EJ would be awesome in this offense.

[Joe Joe]

What good team gashed us? Every game we lost was to a team that primarily threw the ball.

NE. They didn't run it a lot, but 5 ypc is killer.

The Texans aren't going to be able to beat good passing teams if they can't drop a lot of guys in coverage. NE forced the the Texans into nickle and dime coverages. When NE spread the Texans out, it was easy for them to get first downs running it. When the Texans played more balanced, NE ate them up in the air. The Texans need a NG that can defend the run against passing teams when there is only 1 ILB to let the DBs focus on defending the pass. Usually, a lighter NG helps in passing situations, but I think Jenkins moves well enough to help out in this situation (but not well enough to provide more than a bull rush against QB.).

Granted, I thought GB did better against Houston with the run in passing situations, but looking back at game stats...that wasn't the case. The Texans defense does great usually against run only teams.

[barrett]

The NE run game was not a big problem. The NE RBs had their biggest impact in the passing game. Not to mention we were without Cushing in not NE games. NT is not in the top 10 reasons why we lost to NE, GB, Indy, or MIN.

[painekiller]

NT is not in the top 10 reasons why we lost to NE, GB, Indy, or MIN.

To add to this, the NT is usually not on the field when we go to nickle and dime defenses.

[painekiller]

27 D.J. Fluker* OT Alabama 6' 6" 340
57 Quinton Patton WR Louisiana Tech 6' 2" 195
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford 6' 4" 240
95 John Simon DE Ohio State 6' 2" 260
124 Levine Toilolo* TE Stanford 6' 8" 263
160 Duke Williams S Nevada 6' 1" 185
195 Shamarko Thomas S Syracuse 5' 10" 206
201 Mario Benavides OC Louisville 6' 4" 304
233 Michael Buchanan DE Illinois 6' 6" 240


Thought I would take another shot at this one.

27 Robert Woods* WR USC 6' 1" 185 or DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson 6' 2" 194
57 Ryan Swope WR Texas A&M 6' 0" 204
89 Kiko Alonso ILB Oregon 6' 4" 242
95 Tyler Bray* QB Tennessee 6' 6" 210
124 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
160 Menelik Watson* OT Florida State 6' 6" 320
195 Stepfan Taylor RB Stanford 5' 9" 209
201 Joe Kruger* DE Utah 6' 7" 280
233 Darius Slay CB Mississippi State 6' 0" 192

We need WRs, and we cannot count on Posey coming back as the player he was before the injury. So 2 WRs to start this draft. That is a lot of youth at WR, but AJ is not getting younger and we need to start grooming someone.

I changed the QB to Bray, 6'6" with a big arm. 3rd round money is not a huge risk, and he would have two years to develop. If he doesn't work out you let him go, if he does work out then you have a huge steal.

I added Slay to back end of this mock but we all believe Slay will be long gone by pick 233.

[painekiller]

27 Jesse Williams Alabama DT34
Jesse Williams played all over the Defensive Line for the National Champions. At best, the super-strong (600 lb. bench) Williams will supplant Earl Mitchell at Nose Tackle. At worst, he provides quality depth and scheme versatility for the Texans. The team could look at WR, LB, or CB here as well, but Williams provides solid value.
57 DeAndre Hopkins Clemson WRF
HC Gary Kubiak insinuated that the team may go out and try to bring back the recently-cut Kevin Walter. That's an admission of non-confidence with his WR cupboard. Posey, Martin, and Lester Jean caught all of 22 balls last year. Fortunately, some solid WR prospects are dropping down to late R2. Either Robert Woods, Terrance Williams, or this guy, DeAndre Hopkins, could get the nod here.
89 Blidi Wreh-Wilson Connecticut CB
95 Markus Wheaton Oregon State WRS
124 Gavin Escobar San Diego State TE
160 Stansly Maponga TCU OLB34
195 Steve Williams California CB
201 Albert Rosette Nevada SILB
233 Braden Brown BYU LOT

Not sure I see it this way. My outside the box picks:

27 Tyler Eifert Notre Dame TE
57 DeAndre Hopkins Clemson WRF (I think he goes earlier)
89 Nico Johnson Alabama SILB
95 Ryan Swope Texas A&M WRP
124 E.J. Manuel Florida State QB
160 Stansly Maponga TCU OLB34
195 Michael Williams Alabama TE
201 Dennis Johnson Arkansas RBF
233 Braden Brown BYU LOT

McNair wanted speed across from AJ and this draft would add it. Lack of NT could be a problem, and would have liked one more ILB. TE Williams is a luxury. Dennis Johnson can return kicks and would be a nice addition for RB3.

Imagine come the playoffs next years and we can go 4 WR with AJ, Swope, Hopkins, and Posey.

[chuck]

I bet they go DL with their first pick.

[HPF Bob]

I bet they go DL with their first pick.

Because we HAVE to get to Pey..., er Andrew Luck! :p

[chuck]

Because we HAVE to get to Pey..., er Andrew Luck! :p

And then when Goodell moves them to the NFC West think of all those young, mobile QBs they'll have to chase around, are you kidding me?

[Nconroe]

I've heard a few analysts say something like picks 10 thru 50 or 15 thru 40 provide simiar value this year.

Wonder if Texans might trade down or up to get more picks in that range.

[HPF Bob]

I could definitely see the Texans with a list of WR2s they want to draft, then waiting for all but one to be selected then using their 2nd and 3rd (or possibly 2nd and 4th) to move up in the second and get the last guy on their list.

[nunusguy]

I could definitely see the Texans with a list of WR2s they want to draft, then waiting for all but one to be selected then using their 2nd and 3rd (or possibly 2nd and 4th) to move up in the second and get the last guy on their list.
Or move father back in the first (or maybe even into the second round) by trading their first round pick for multiple picks, just as they did in '08 when they drafted Duane Brown. That would be so Rick Smith who almost always seems to go for additional picks and not fewer by way of improving his position in a round.
But yea, I look for him to leverage the receiver depth of the Draft class and not reach for a single player.
And I'm gonna be surprised if they draft a safety or ILB higher than the third round.

[gunn]

I could definitely see the Texans with a list of WR2s they want to draft, then waiting for all but one to be selected then using their 2nd and 3rd (or possibly 2nd and 4th) to move up in the second and get the last guy on their list.

I'd personally like to see something like that. Nassib would be my first choice, but if he is gone by 27 I'd like to see Jesse Williams there to come in an solidify the nose. Then like you suggested, come back in the second with a guy like Robert Woods, a smooth guy on the field, to start immediately opposite Andre. In the 3rd/4th areas, I'd like to see them look at Tyrann Mathieu and Kiko Alonso. Off the field issues with these two, but for me, I have no doubts about their competitive streak or skills on the field. If they can come full circle I think both could come right away and compete for the starting spots at nickel corner and ILB.

[gunn]

First Round Mock

1. Kansas City - Luke Joeckel - OT Texas A&M
2. Jacksonville - Dion Jordan - DE Oregon
3. Oakland - Sharrif Floyd - DT Florida
4. Philadelphia - Eric Fisher - OT Central Michigan
5. Detroit - Ezekiel Ansah - DE BYU
6. Cleveland - Tavon Austin - WR West Virginia
7. Arizona - Lane Johnson - OT Oklahoma
8. Buffalo - Ryan Nassib - QB Syracuse
9. New York Jets - Geno Smith - QB West Virginia
10. Tennessee - Dee Milliner - DB Alabama
11. San Diego - Chance Warmack - OG Alabama
12. Miami - Barkevious Mingo - DE LSU
13. Tampa Bay - Star Lotulelei - DT Utah
14. Carolina - Kenny Vaccaro - S Texas
15. New Orleans - DJ Fluker - OT Alabama
16. St. Louis - Tyler Eifert - TE Notre Dame
17. Pittsburgh - Cordarrelle Patterson - WR Tennessee
18. Dallas - Jonathan Cooper - OG North Carolina
19. New York Giants - Xavier Rhodes - DB Florida State
20. Chicago - Alec Ogletree - LB Georgia
21. Cincinnati - John Cyprien - S Florida International
22. St. Louis - Jarvis Jones - LB Georgia
23. Minnesota - Arther Brown - LB Kansas State
24. Indianapolis - Eddie Lacy - RB Alabama
25. Minnesota - Justin Hunter - WR Tennessee
26. Green Bay - Brian Schwenke - C California
27. Houston - Sheldon Richardson - DT Missouri
28. Denver - Bjoern Werner - DE Florida State
29. New England - Margus Hunt - DE SMU
30. Atlanta - Jamar Taylor - DB Boise State
31. San Francisco - Jesse Williams - DT Alabama
32. Baltimore - Keenan Allen - WR California

[painekiller]

27 Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame 6' 2" 245
57 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
89 David Bakhtiari* OT Colorado 6' 4" 295
95 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
124 Brandon Jenkins DE Florida State 6' 3" 234
160 Leon McFadden CB San Diego State 5' 10" 180
195 Cory Grissom DT South Florida 6' 3" 316
201 Eric Martin DE Nebraska 6' 2" 250
233 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199

On December 15, i would have loved this mock, now not as much. Te'o is a huge question mark. Is he the tackling machine or is he the slow footed guy that played against Bama.

I would be looking for a trade down with a team that is looking to lock up a QB before the 2nd round starts. There has to be a team that wants to get in front of Jacksonville.

[painekiller]

27 Kevin Minter LSU SILB Kevin Minter was not only LSU's leading tackler; Minter made 13.55% of his team's tackles, the best ratio in this draft at any position. There are only two difference-making ILBs in 2013's first two rounds; Minter is the slobberknocker and Arthur Brown is the speed merchant. Houston should take the 17-lbs.-heavier tackling machine even if Minter comes off the field on third and long. That's because he'll force opponents into more third and longs, which in turn will allow Jackson, Joseph, and McCain more opportunities for INTs. Pass defense is the Texans' worst team stat (16th in the NFL).
57 Tavarres King Georgia WRF Andre Johnson will be in his 11th season this year and is still going strong. How will the Texans prepare for his eventual replacement? Tavarres King was patient, playing behind the likes of A.J. Green and Massaquoi, but he took the country by storm in 2012, netting college's highest yards-per-catch (22.6). With the selection of King, the Texans now improve their 2nd-worst team average, that of Pass Offense (11th in NFL).
89 B.W. Webb William & Mary CB
95 Vance McDonald Rice TE
124 Tyrann Mathieu LSU CB
160 Travis Long Washington State OLB34
195 Gilbert Pena Mississippi DT34
201 Brad Sorensen Southern Utah QB
233 T.J. Moe Missouri WRS

[painekiller]

27 Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame 6' 2" 245
57 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
89 David Bakhtiari* OT Colorado 6' 4" 295
95 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
124 Brandon Jenkins DE Florida State 6' 3" 234
160 Leon McFadden CB San Diego State 5' 10" 180
195 Cory Grissom DT South Florida 6' 3" 316
201 Eric Martin DE Nebraska 6' 2" 250
233 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199

On December 15, i would have loved this mock, now not as much. Te'o is a huge question mark. Is he the tackling machine or is he the slow footed guy that played against Bama.

I would be looking for a trade down with a team that is looking to lock up a QB before the 2nd round starts. There has to be a team that wants to get in front of Jacksonville.

Didn't have time to cherry pick this the other day and wanted to do so now.

I want to trade down and I am thinking the Jets or the Cards might be looking to jump back to the 1st round to be able to add a year to the contract and get ahead of the Jags at 33. I am going to use the trade of the 27 pick for the 39th and 72nd picks. That would give us 5 picks in the top 100. A very good way to rebuild depth.

39 Robert Woods* WR USC 6' 1" 185
57 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
72 Kiko Alonso ILB Oregon 6' 4" 242
89 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
95 Bacarri Rambo S Georgia 6' 1" 208
124 William Gholston* DE Michigan State 6' 7" 280 (I don't think he will be here at 124)
160 Kevin Reddick ILB UNC 6' 3" 230
195 Knile Davis* RB Arkansas 6' 0" 220
201 Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6' 8" 252
233 Lawrence Okoye DT United Kingdom (Great Britain) 6' 6" 308

Obviously I need to take an OT somewhere in this thing and taking two WRs in the 2nd round would mean that the team would have 4 WRs under 2 years on the roster when Posey comes back in the late season. But WR is a position that you have to stockpile playmakers and the competition should push all these kids to get better faster. Adding two safeties also means that our ST captain Keo could be a late cut. Williams is a Keo type leader but with more speed. And Rambo and Williams have proven to play well together so why not.

Gholston is a guy that could be a 3-4 DE or maybe he could be an OLB similar to Mario, I'm not sure how Wade will want to use him. Most of these guys will play special teams in some form and should improve it. I think we need depth and this draft would do that. Okoye is a discuss thrower who played rugby, he is an explosive athlete who would be a project for the NT position.

I don't see this as a Texans style draft, but I would have to look at these guys at this picks.

[painekiller]

With the draft a little over a week away, I want to say that I am now firmly in the trade down camp. Some of you may remember that I am a strong proponent of trading down and gathering picks in top 100 picks. Currently we have 3 picks in the top 100, and we could easily add another pick into the top 100 with a trade down.

With the way the current draft is stacking up, few players are jumping out as potential superstars, but many are looking like solid NFL starters. And that trend is looking like solid player will be garnered into the early 4th round.

So in my book, I would trade down and gather picks.

[HPF Bob]

Don't forget there is the comp pick after the third and another after the 6th. They cannot be traded but they allow you some flexibility to trade other picks while still having a spot to use for someone you've targeted.

[nunusguy]

With the draft a little over a week away, I want to say that I am now firmly in the trade down camp. Some of you may remember that I am a strong proponent of trading down and gathering picks in top 100 picks. Currently we have 3 picks in the top 100, and we could easily add another pick into the top 100 with a trade down.

With the way the current draft is stacking up, few players are jumping out as potential superstars, but many are looking like solid NFL starters. And that trend is looking like solid player will be garnered into the early 4th round.

So in my book, I would trade down and gather picks.
Including the comp for Mario, I thought we had 4 ?

[painekiller]

Including the comp for Mario, I thought we had 4 ?

You both are correct, I knew that it was already 4, but had a senior moment and kept typing 3. I should have have said I want 5 picks in the top 100, we currently have 4 in the top 95.

Thanks for pointing this out.

[painekiller]

27 Datone Jones DE UCLA 6' 4" 275
57 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
89 Phillip Thomas S Fresno State 6' 1" 215
95 Sam Montgomery* DE LSU 6' 4" 245
124 Everett Dawkins DT Florida State 6' 2" 269
160 Leon McFadden CB San Diego State 5' 10" 180
195 Kerwynn Williams RB Utah State 5' 9" 185
201 Keith Pough OLB Howard 6' 3" 235
233 Tony Jefferson* S Oklahoma 5' 10" 199

How many DE/OLBs do the Texans need?

My Cherry pick, again with a trade down. Our 27 for Detroit's 36 and 65.

36 Menelik Watson* OT Florida State 6' 6" 320
57 Keenan Allen* WR Cal 6' 3" 195
65 Kiko Alonso ILB Oregon 6' 4" 242
89 Shawn Williams S Georgia 6' 1" 220
95 William Gholston* DE Michigan State 6' 7" 280
124 Kwame Geathers* DT Georgia 6' 6" 355
160 A.J. Klein ILB Iowa State 6' 1" 240
195 Knile Davis* RB Arkansas 6' 0" 220
201 Joseph Fauria TE UCLA 6' 8" 252
233 Lawrence Okoye DT United Kingdom (Great Britain) 6' 6" 308

[painekiller]

27 Jesse Williams Alabama DT34
57 David Amerson North Carolina St CB
89 Chris Harper Kansas State WRF
95 Jonathan Bostic Florida SILB
124 Brandon Jenkins Florida State OLB34
160 Tharold Simon LSU CB
195 Jake Stoneburner Ohio State TE
201 Kapron Lewis-Moore Notre Dame DE34
233 Jakar Hamilton South Carolina State FS

[machoneil]

My Cherry pick from Draftsite mock, no trades.

27 Tyler Eifert TE ND
57 Quinton Patton WR Lou.Tech
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford
95 Chris Harper WR Kansas St.
124 Duke Williams S Nevada
160 Kevin Reddick ILB UNC
195 Knile Davis RB Arkansas
201 Eric Herman OG Ohio (nickname: IronMan)
233 Spencer Nealy DT TAMU

[painekiller]

My Cherry pick from Draftsite mock, no trades.

27 Tyler Eifert TE ND
57 Quinton Patton WR Lou.Tech
89 Chase Thomas OLB Stanford
95 Chris Harper WR Kansas St.
124 Duke Williams S Nevada
160 Kevin Reddick ILB UNC
195 Knile Davis RB Arkansas
201 Eric Herman OG Ohio (nickname: IronMan)
233 Spencer Nealy DT TAMU

I could live with this one. Good job!

[Nconroe]

Well, lots of good players left to select in draft tomorrow, round 2 and 3.

If one of those three picks by Texans is a TE, seems to be plenty tall, good catching and blockig TE to choose from.

The rank of remaining TE by Walters Football -

Zach Ertz*, TE, Stanford
Height: 6-5. Weight: 249. Arm: 31.68. Hand: 9.68.
40 Time: 4.76.
Projected Round (2013): 1-2.

Gavin Escobar*, TE, San Diego State
Height: 6-6. Weight: 254. Arm: 33.58. Hand: 9.68.
40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round (2013): 2-3.

Travis Kelce, TE, Cincinnati
Height: 6-5. Weight: 255. Arm: 33.68. Hand: 9.58.
Projected 40 Time: 4.73.
Projected Round (2013): 2-4.

Jordan Reed*, TE, Florida
Height: 6-3. Weight: 236. Arm: 33.08. Hand: 10.08.
40 Time: 4.72.
Projected Round (2012): 2-4.

Vance McDonald, TE, Rice
Height: 6-4. Weight: 267. Arm: 34 1/2. Hand: 10.18.
40 Time: 4.69.
Projected Round (2013): 3-4.

Nick Kasa, TE, Colorado
Height: 6-6. Weight: 271. Arm: 32 1/8. Hand: 9.
40 Time: 4.71.
Projected Round (2013): 3-4.

Ryan Otten, TE, San Jose State
Height: 6-5. Weight: 240. Arm: 32 1/8. Hand: 9 5/8.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Projected Round (2013): 3-4.

Dion Sims*, TE, Michigan State
Height: 6-5. Weight: 262. Arm: 33.18. Hand: 10.48.
40 Time: 4.75.
Projected Round (2013): 3-5.