2017 NFL Mock Draft: Saints find Drew Brees replacement

<p>No doubt the Houston Texans know they’re close to fielding a team that is capable of making a deep playoff run. They have a defense that is among the best in the league and now a young quarterback in Brock Osweiler that has the talent to elevate the offense. Not to mention a bevy of young receivers with explosiveness led by DeAndre Hopkins. The options have grown considerably the past few months. That being said there is one area that continues to lag behind in terms of productivity.</p> <p>That’s the tight end position. Houston has patiently waited for former 3rd round pick C.J. Fiedorowicz to blossom into a passing threat. So far they’ve been disappointed. He managed just 167 yards last season and was quiet all preseason.</p> <p>The time may be right for the team to go for the home run and that’s what they do when they move up in the first round to grab Alabama standout O.J. Howard. Since the end of last season he has shown why he’s the best tight end in the 2017 class. His mix of size and speed make for a matchup nightmare in the passing game. Having him going down the middle with Hopkins outside? Frightening.</p>. TE. Alabama. O.J. Howard . 15. player. 10