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2019 NFL Draft: 5 players Texans could take in Round 1

By Rucker Haringey

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 05: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans rolls out looking for a receiver against the Indianapolis Colts during the Wild Card Round at NRG Stadium on January 05, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 05: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans rolls out looking for a receiver against the Indianapolis Colts during the Wild Card Round at NRG Stadium on January 05, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /
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Deshaun Watson was lucky to finish the 2018 season in one piece. The Texans have to find him offensive line help in Round 1 of this year’s draft.

The Texans entered the offseason with a clear need to improve the offensive line tasked with protecting quarterback Deshaun Watson. The Pro Bowl signal caller got battered last season. Houston can’t afford to let that happen again in 2019.

To date, the only free agent the Texans have added on the offensive line is tackle Matt Kalil. The Panthers literally paid him to go away. If Bill O’Brien and his coaching staff think he’s going to represent a significant upgrade then they will be sorely disappointed.

It would be a major surprise if the Texans don’t try to find an immediate starter along the offensive line with the No. 23 pick. Houston should double down with both of their second round selections to add two players to protect Watson. This piece will break down the five prospects most likely to be chosen by the Texans with their first round selection.

5. Jonah Williams

If Williams is still on the board when the Texans go on the clock they should run to the podium to select him. Unfortunately for GM Brian Gaine and his front office, he’s almost certainly going to be off the board by the time the No. 23 pick comes up.

It’s very possible Houston will try to move up to grab Williams though. Most people consider him to be the best tackle in this draft. A few scouts think he’s better suited to play guard at the professional level, but those doubts seem to have dissipated as the pre-draft process has gone along.

Even if Williams is forced to move inside he could provide the Texans with a massive upgrade at guard. Houston would love to see the former Alabama star fall into their lap.

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