Beyond offensive line needs, an analyst highlights an electrifying Texas linebacker, a perfect defensive playmaker and impact player for the Texans.
Each NFL team is looking for the perfect fit as they approach the 2026 draft. Many view the Texans as a team that will need offensive linemen, but the perfect addition may come elsewhere.
The Texans made it clear that offensive line was a priority when they added five offensive linemen in free agency, but many believe the team needs a lineman in the draft. While they could certainly get more than one in their first three picks one analyst is looking to the defensive side to upgrade the team's defense.
ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen has identified who he believes is a perfect fit for the Texans this offseason through the draft. Bowen claims that player is in-state star linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. from The University of Texas. Bowen detailed why Hill is the right fit for Houston at pick No. 38.
"Hill can add both speed (4.51-second 40-yard dash) and playmaking ability to the second level of coach DeMeco Ryans' defense. At his size, Hill can drop the hammer in the run game or make stops on the perimeter. And he could be schemed up on blitzes under Ryans. Hill had 17 sacks in three college seasons.
Houston has plenty of young talent in its secondary, but it could make a play here to add young talent to the front seven."
Mississippi State Bulldogs running back Davon Booth (6) runs the ball as Texas Longhorns linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. (0) makes the tackle during the third quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Petre Thomas-Imagn ImagesHill was productive in his time at Texas, breaking out as a freshman with a game-clinching sack in Texas' stunning win over Alabama in 2023. That game showed the cracks in the foundation of the Saban era and announced Texas' return to college football's elite.
While at Texas, Hill led the Longhorns to two College Football Playoff Semifinals, two playoff wins, a Big 12 title and an SEC title appearance. Hill went 6-1 against Texas' top three rivals in Oklahoma, Texas A&M and Arkansas, holding the Sooners out of the end zone in two of the three games against the team. His impact was unmistakable.
The former five-star linebacker lived up to the hype with the Longhorns. The greatest asset he brought to the team came in the form of range and closing ground in pursuit. Hill's ability to run sideline to sideline and transition into coverage to intercept or break up passes was among the best in college football during his time at Texas.
The Longhorns linebacker may not be a perfect prospect, but as Bowen suggests, he could be the perfect fit for the Texans at No. 38.