Grading the Texans' Historic 2023 NFL Draft Class

The Houston Texans had a historic 2023 NFL Draft class that has shaped their roster and solidified them as a powerhouse in the NFL. But just how good was it? After three years, it’s time to look back and grade each selection.

1:2- CJ Stroud

CJ Stroud has played a pivotal role in establishing the Texans as a contender in the AFC. He jump-started his career with an immaculate 2023 season in which he won Offensive Rookie of the Year. Although the last two years haven’t been as good, he’s still been a great quarterback who’s capable of leading the offense deep into the playoffs. 

Grade: A-

1:3- Will Anderson Jr.

The Texans made a splash by trading up to pick number three and selecting Will Anderson Jr., which couldn’t have worked out better. The dynamic edge rusher has tallied 30 sacks, 46 tackles for loss, and 230 pressures in his three-year career. He was the runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year in 2025 and has shown no signs of slowing down. Anderson will be a force against opposing offenses in Houston for the foreseeable future.

Grade: A+

2:62- Juice Scruggs

Juice Scruggs has had an inconsistent, yet still productive career with the Texans. He’s seen snaps at center, right guard, and left guard and has been a valuable safety net for an injury-prone offensive line. However, he couldn't solidify himself as a long-term option and was shipped off to the Detroit Lions this offseason, where he’s set to battle for a starting role.

Grade: C+

3:69- Tank Dell

Tank Dell has been exceptional while on the field, but he can’t stay healthy. He’s coming off a devastating torn ACL, MCL, and PCL he suffered in 2024, causing him to miss the entirety of 2025. As a result, this season is pivotal for him to show he’s still an explosive option and can remain injury-free. Despite his talent, it’s hard to grade him much higher until he shows his reliability.

Grade: B-

4:109- Dylan Horton

Dylan Horton’s career has been filled with adversity, having been diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma during his rookie season. However, he’s battled through it and has earned a role as a rotational piece on the Texans’ defensive line. 2026 will be a massive test for him as he seeks to take the next step and improve his production.

Grade: C

5:167- Henry To’oTo’o

Henry To’oTo’o has been an amazing contributor for the Texans, thriving against the run and as a blitzer. He’s a bona fide starter for DeMeco Ryan’s defense and will play a major role in their success. It’s hard to ask more from a fifth-round pick.

Grade: A

6:201- Jarrett Patterson

Jarrett Patterson won’t be a starter for the Texans next year, but he’s a quality depth piece who can play all three interior offensive line positions. He’s seen over 1,500 snaps in his career and has proven himself as a capable option.

Grade: B

6:202- Xavier Hutchinson

Xavier Hutchinson hasn’t been, and probably won’t ever be a 1,000-yard receiver for the Texans, but he’s an amazing backup who can step up when needed. He’s coming off a career-high 493 receiving yards and three touchdowns last season. It’s been a theme with these late-round picks, but it’s hard to ask for more than that from a sixth-round prospect.

Grade: B+

7:248- Brandon Hill

Brandon Hill has bounced around the Texans’ practice squad and free agency. He’s only logged one defensive snap in his career and likely won’t see the field soon.

Grade: D-