The Houston Texans have concluded their 2025 NFL Draft with a selection of players who are expected to make an immediate impact in their offensive line-up. C.J. Stroud, who faced a dip in his performance last season, will see reinforcements on his team, including four formidable newcomers. Furthermore, Houston managed to secure a promising candidate for the franchise’s left tackle position, a seasoned player with three-years of Big Ten experience under his belt. The Texans’ strategic player selection during the draft received a thumbs up from analysts, with evaluation scores never dipping below a ‘C+’ and even earning an impressive ‘A’ from three reviewers.
One of the key elements boosting these excellent grades was the acquisition of two prospective Day 2 picks following the trade of Laremy Tunsil and securing a future third-round pick through a negotiation with the New York Giants that saw the Texans drop down nine spots. Though the Texans bid adieu to their 2026 third-round slot, it was their own to trade away, positioning them well for a high-ranking pick on Day 2 of next year’s procedures. The Texans’ draft strategy for 2026 already looks robust with bonus selections in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th rounds – including two courtesy of the Tunsil trade to Washington.
With a well-diversified roster for 2026 in sight, the focus shifted to providing QB C.J. Stroud with the support he needed following a challenging sophomore season marred mostly by matters beyond his control. Going forward, Stroud will have at his disposal a promising protector – second-round selection Aireontae Ersery – supplemented by a reimagined line-up. The talented former Iowa State wide receivers, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, chosen in the second and third rounds of the draft, will replenish a receiver group that saw considerable depletion in 2024.
Even after trading away their first-round pick, the Texans still pulled off four Day 2 selections. The highlights of these selections are the two Iowa State receivers: Jayden Higgins, renowned for his imposing 6-foot-4 stance and explosive performance, along with Jaylin Noel, known for his speed and post-catch acceleration, particularly in the slot position. Both these players were in my top-seven receiver rankings.
As for the Texans’ new inclusion to the offensive line, Aireontae Ersery, his 6-foot-6 physique and 331 pounds of raw power make him a formidable opponent against both speed and strength. While it may be a while before Ersery enters the starting line-up, his potential to grow into a leading left tackle can’t be overlooked. Wrapped up within the Texans’ third-round selection was Jaylin Smith, who was my choice for the 25th cornerback spot and is a player teeming with potential. The duo selected in the seventh round are also worth monitoring.
Interestingly, the popular Iowa State wide receiver duo that repeatedly garnered praise throughout the pre-draft campaigns have signed on with the Texans. Their collective shift to Houston has been well received. There’s no forgetting the divisional playoff encounter with Kansas City where Stroud endured eight sacks and 14 hits.
The brunt of the hits Stroud took during the match with Kansas City was likely a determining factor in GM Nick Caserio’s resolution to restructure the Texans’ line-up. Over the ensuing months, he has executed a complete transformation of the team. Expectations are high to see a starting line-up comprised of five new faces come September.
Deviation from their initial draft spot at No. 25 was another strategic move carried out by the Texans. Situating themselves after the early selection of Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins on a Friday night proved to be a pivotal lead-up to Caserio’s subsequent move: drafting Minnesota’s robust offensive tackle, Aireontae Ersery, in the second round.
Contemplations still linger on whether Ersery would be a better fit on the left or right flank, as his larger frame may sometimes fall short against swifter opponents on the edge. But when it comes to confidence, Ersery’s cup runneth over. During his interactions with Houston’s coach, DeMeco Ryans, Ersery made a bold claim, assuring him that he’s just secured the best tackle in this year’s draft.