2019 NFL Mock Draft: Projected first round after college football season

The Texans have to focus on improving their offensive line this offseason to protect franchise QB Deshaun Watson. Despite his mobility, no team in the league gave up more sacks than the Texans, with Watson going down nearly four times per game.

Watson has already suffered one devastating knee injury in the NFL, and if Houston wants to continue their upswing, they have to protect him moving forward. They have plenty of skill-position talent with DeAndre Hopkins, the emerging Keke Coutee, and Will Fuller when he is healthy.

Despite facing constant harassment, Watson was able to lead Houston to the AFC South crown, but they were outclassed in the divisional round by the rival Colts.

Jawaan Taylor is a big tackle with great hands and footwork, who could come in and plug in as an immediate starter for the Texans. Don’t be surprised if he is a big mover in this class when the pre-draft process kicks into full gear, potentially threatening both Jonah Williams and Greg Little to be the first offensive lineman drafted.

With Houston’s slew of receivers, adding a tight end like Alabama’s Irv Smith Jr. or Iowa’s Noah Fant could be intriguing to give another dynamic to an already potent offensive attack. They could also look at targeting a cornerback with the impending free agency of veteran Kareem Jackson, who after a strong year could get decent money on the open market.