Houston Texans hone in on defense in 7-round 2020 mock draft
By Lucas Schuh
While 2019 addition Vernon Hargreaves is a former first-round pick, his usage in the slot has caused him to struggle, among other things. That’s why the Texans should look to Josiah Scott to help fix that issue.
Scott is among the most underrated corners in the 2020 draft class with the potential to be a great slot player. While he has small arms, he has the skills and athleticism to dominate in the slot. he has recovery speed but also has great breaks to be sticky in coverage. However, his fluidity and movement skills are his best traits, which again aid in his ability to cover in the slot.
In the seventh round, Scott would be an excellent pickup for Houston. He would fit well with Houston and address the issues with the slot while also potentially moving Hargreaves back outside and seeing if he can revive his young career.
Other Players Available: Kamren Curl, Omar Bayless, Essang Bassey
The best tight end on the Texans roster right now is Darren Fells, which says all you need to know. Unfortunately, the 2020 draft class is light at the position. But while you may hear the most about Thaddeus Moss out of LSU, he and teammate Stephen Sullivan might be on the same level skill-wise.
Sullivan isn’t game-breaker with elite movement or YAC ability and he’s also not an elite blocker. However, he’s a height-length-speed guy at 6-5 with 35-inch arms and after clocking a 4.66-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Those are traits Houston can mold with.
The national champion will give Watson and the Texans another option in the offense and hopefully a worthwhile project at a position of need.
Other Players Available: Francis Benard, Tony Brown, Cole McDonald
Nearing the end of the draft, no team is going to find a near-finished product. However, you can find players with athletic traits that teams believe they can work with and develop. Kamal Martin is that type of player. He wasn’t all that productive at Minnesota as an off-ball linebacker often tasked with dropping into coverage.
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However, his movement ability in coverage gives hope for what he could be. While his lack of production is a concern, he could be a valuable depth and developmental piece in a young linebacker group for Houston. Martin is well worth a late-round flier.
Other Players Available: Joey Magnifico, Jalen Elliott, Tyler Huntley