2. Houston Texans
The Houston Texans are in win-now mode with quarterback Deshaun Watson still on his rookie deal, so pouncing on a star running back to help carry the offense makes a lot of sense.
We’ve seen other teams in similar situations follow this model and be successful. For instance, the Philadelphia Eagles traded for Jordan Howard this offseason and Jay Ajayi two seasons ago while Carson Wentz was on a rookie contract.
The Texans currently have two capable running backs in Lamar Miller and D’Onta Foreman, but neither are equipped to be a full workhorse like Melvin Gordon. Miller becomes a free agent after the 2019 season, and Foreman has yet to prove himself in the NFL after suffering a devastating Achilles injury near the end of the 2017 season.
Houston did all they could to improve their offensive line this offseason, as well. After drafting offensive tackle Tytus Howard in the first round and offensive tackle/guard Max Scharping in the second round of this year’s draft, the Texans dedicated the 2019 offseason to protecting Watson and improving the running game.
Gordon would open up the passing game and provide a safety valve whenever Watson gets into trouble.