2018 NFL Draft: Houston Texans 7-round mock
By Joe Romano
Round 6 – Pick 180
Brandon Parker, T, North Carolina A&T
There was a real possibility that I was going to take an offensive lineman at every spot in this draft. That is how important it is for Houston to grab some guys to protect Deshaun Watson. After grabbing two guards earlier, the team goes out and gets a developmental prospect at tackle. Brandon Parker of North Carolina A&T had a strong performance at the Senior Bowl. It started with great measurable, including the all-important arm length. During the practice week he showed that he can hold his own. Paired with Julian Davenport from a year ago, the Texans have two small school tackles who could develop into future starters.
Round 6 – Pick 212
Jordan Akins, TE, UCF
One strong area for the Houston Texans is their pass catchers. A piece that they can gamble on is a tight end that can make plays. Jordan Akins is that type of player. The “National Champion” was a productive player for the Knights and may be taken well before this pick. A lot will depend how he runs at the combine, because he lacks elite speed at the position. Akins is a rare tight end who will be comfortable in-line but is also a strong route runner with good hands.
Round 6 – Pick 215
Braxton Berrios, WR, Miami
Another player to add to a dynamic offense, who may be undervalued in this mock is Miami’s Braxton Berrios. Houston has two receivers who can take the top off the defense in DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller. What they could use is an underneath chain moving type when teams load up over the top on those two.
That is the exact role Berrios can fill in the NFL. He is a tough slot receiver with excellent hands and crisp routes. Miami also utilized him as a punt and kick returner, on a team filled with dynamic athletes. Houston would be smart to add this pass catcher to their already stellar unit.
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Round 7 – Pick 222
Joe Ostman, EDGE, Central Michigan
In the later rounds, teams look for two things; potential or production. The latter is what Joe Ostman out of Central Michigan has. He led the FBS in sacks, averaging over one per game. Unfortunately he did not get a combine invite so teams will have to make their way to his pro day to see his workout.
Teams are concerned about his lack of length or athleticism. However he showed that he can rush the passer. At the next level he could make an impact on pass rushing downs and provide depth for Houston behind Jadaveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus.