2016 NFL Mock Draft: Week 3 edition

The Texans have talent all over their roster, but not at quarterback. In today’s pass-happy, offense-oriented NFL it is tough to win games without a reliable force at the helm. Receivers DeAndre Hopkins, Cecil Shorts, and Nate Washington could have insane productivity with a more competent quarterback.

Cal quarterback Jared Goff would be a nice solution for the Texans. Unlike other highly-hyped college quarterbacks, Goff has shown improvement this year in terms of his pass completion rate and yards per attempt.

The Bears are undefeated due in large part to Goff’s stellar performances, including a victory against the Washington Huskies, whom they hadn’t beaten since 2008. During that game, Goff threw for 342 yards and had two touchdowns despite much pressure from the opposing defense.

In a play not reflected well by statistics, Goff sealed the victory by salvaging a play on fourth-and-four during which the lanky quarterback executed a gutsy run for five yards. Coach Sonny Dykes said, “What he did for us on that fourth down is indicative of what he’s done for us this year.”

Goff is just 20 years old and stands 6’4″, carrying only 201 pounds on his wiry frame. He is smart, coachable, and has room for physical growth as well. He already demonstrates NFL-level skills, the most impressive of which are solid decision-making skills and his ability to make active reads, even under pressure. Goff has a very high ceiling.

Next: No. 9 Detroit Lions