Houston Texans: Post-Combine 7-round 2018 mock draft

Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images
Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images /
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As a part of their trade sending Duane Brown to the Seattle Seahawks, the Texans picked up an extra third round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. With that selection in this mock draft (80th overall), Houston beefs up their offensive line once again by snagging Mississippi State’s Martinas Rankin.

After signing with Mississippi State from the Junior College ranks, Rankin has been the Bulldogs’ starting left tackle for the last two seasons. As a senior in 2017, Rankins was voted an honorable mention All-American and second-team All-SEC. Simply put, he was a fantastic left tackle at the college level last season.

Similar to Noteboom, Rankins is an athletic offensive tackle who has impressive length on the outside. He shines as a pass protector, showing great technique in pass sets and keeping up with speed rushers on the edge. He also shows solid run blocking ability, reaching the second level with ease and handling power relatively well.

Rankins was primarily a tackle in college, but he seems to have the ability to kick inside at the next level. There is a lot to like about Rankins’ game. His versatile skill set is extremely interesting, as Rankins could legitimately play all five position across the offensive line at the next level.

No matter where he would fit in, the Texans could undoubtedly use a player like Rankins up front. Adding him to the mix with Noteboom immediately makes their offensive line much more interesting.