Texans address perhaps top need in Mel Kiper Jr.’s first mock draft

If the Houston Texans plan on taking that next step over the divisional-round woes, they’ll need to fix the offensive line.

Five-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil is locked in at left tackle after another strong season protecting C.J. Stroud in pass-blocking. Outside of him, the other four spots are up for grabs.

While Houston can’t address every need with a veteran addition, it can pivot toward the draft to secure a cheap long-term option with upside. That’s been the plan in most mock drafts, including ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., who has the Texans selecting Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons with the No. 25 overall pick.

Here’s another player who missed most of the 2024 season. Simmons was out after six games with a left knee injury. Had he stayed healthy, I think we’d be talking about him as a OT1 candidate in this class. He’s consistent in pass protection and drives back defenders in the run game. Houston’s pass protection was anything but consistent this season, allowing 54 sacks
(tied for third-most). Quarterback C.J. Stroud was constantly on the run. The Texans have left tackle Laremy Tunsil under contract for two more seasons, but Simmons could fit in at right tackle or even a guard spot for now before potentially taking over on the left side down the road.

Selecting Simmons comes with some concerns. While viewed as potentially the highest upside pass-protector, Simmons hasn’t played since October and didn’t help the Buckeyes hoist their first national title since 2014.

When looking at Kiper’s draft, four other offensive linemen were off the board inside the top 20, including fan favorite Tyler Booker from Alabama. Simmons could also be viewed as more of a long-term play rather than a Day 1 starter.

#OSU LT Josh Simmons was outstanding against Michigan State and has been all season. Easy athleticism to move laterally but has made a big jump as a consistent run blocker too.

Gets to the second level with ease, balanced as a pass protector, strong anchor. Love what I’m seeing. pic.twitter.com/lO38vjwwYr

— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) September 30, 2024

Tunsil’s contract is moveable after the 2025 season, but he also could be elected to finish his career out in Houston on a short-term extension. Rookie Blake Fisher was a hit-and-miss at times while playing right tackle, so a shift inside might better become the eventual play.