Houston Texans: 5 best NFL Draft picks of all-time

Owen Daniels (2006: 4th round, 98th overall)

The 2006 NFL Draft was a tumultuous one at best for the Houston Texans, but it turned out to be one of the best in franchise history.

Owning the first overall pick in the draft, the Texans selected Mario Williams in an attempt to bolster the team’s defensive line, much to the dismay of fans who wanted either local star and national champion Vince Young or Heisman Trophy recipient Reggie Bush. Williams has gone on to be a four-time Pro Bowler, while Bush and Young both failed to live up to the hype.

Houston selected Defensive Rookie of the Year DeMeco Ryans in the second round, who made two Pro Bowls during a six-year stint with the organization. Third round pick Eric Winston would become a five-year starter at offensive tackle.

But despite all these pickups, it was in the fourth round with the 98th overall pick that the Texans made their most worthwhile selection of the 2006 NFL Draft: tight end Owen Daniels.

Daniels spent eight seasons in Houston, compiling 4,617 receiving yards, 29 touchdowns and serving as the starter from essentially day one. During this time, he emerged as a reliable No. 2 option to star wide receiver Andre Johnson, and played a vital part in the franchise’s first playoff run.

Daniels left the Texans to sign with the Baltimore Ravens after an injury-plagued 2013 campaign. He signed with the Denver Broncos last offseason, starting every game for the Super Bowl champions.

Next: No. 2