2019 NFL Draft: Projected First Round after NFL Combine

The Texans would likely be disappointed to see the Seahawks grab Garrett Bradbury two picks ahead of them, but there’s still quality offensive linemen to be had with their selection. Houston has to take an offensive linemen with their first pick in the draft as they sorely need upgrades up front to protect Deshaun Watson.

Despite Watson’s mobility, the Texans led the NFL with 62 sacks given up in 2018, a number that is not sustainable if they want to prevent further injuries to their franchise signal-caller. Watson has already suffered one season-ending knee injury in his young pro career, and Houston needs to limit the amount of hits he is taking going forward.

With offensive line the biggest priority, I’d expect this pick to come down to Washington State tackle Andre Dillard and Boston College guard Chris Lindstrom. Both would probably be slight reaches with this pick, but the Texans don’t have the luxury of drafting the best player available with the pressing need up front.

Dillard is an excellent pass blocker, coming from an air-raid system in Pullman. He has nice footwork and strong hands to combat edge rushers. He’s likely to need some development as a run blocker due to Washington State’s lack of attention to that facet of the offense, but he has the potential to develop into a well rounded player down the road. He should be able to contribute as a rookie.

A tight end like Iowa’s Noah Fant or Alabama’s Irv Smith Jr. might also be intriguing for the Texans as they might value adding another weapon to their budding offense, but protecting Watson is too important to pass on.