Houston Texans Mock Draft Days Away from the NFL Draft

Trying to hit on depth with players who can eventually start

The Houston Texans are slated to pick 28th overall in the first round. My preference would be to trade back, but it’s hard to predict that without knowing whether a quarterback will be there at 28th overall. Looking at where the Texans pick, I don’t feel it is crazy to think they move from the top of the fourth round into the back of the third round either.

Their needs list has transformed into more of a shopping list. There were clear paths for rookies to start last year. Rookie opportunities should be limited to depth contributions if the offseason additions and health hold up. Still, the long-term upside and the chance to affect the team in 2026 are the goals.

Here is a mock draft that achieves those things.

28th Overall - DE Ahkeem Mesidor, Miami

I love the idea of Mesidor on the Texans. He is one of the few edge players with the upside to take over Danielle Hunter’s spot when Hunter is inevitably priced out of this roster. Mesidor is an older prospect, but he’s still growing as a pass rusher. He’s only played a couple of seasons on the edge after playing on the inside of the defensive line. He might be a little light on his ability to stop the run, but when you’re thinking about drafting this player, you are drafting him to rush the passer. Find the run stuffing elsewhere. Mesidor has a wide range. He should be in the vicinity of when the Texans pick, but it won’t be surprising to see him get called well before Houston is on the clock.