Forget the offensive line. Houston eyes a defensive game-changer, potentially pairing a top edge rusher with their newly historic star.
Entering the NFL draft, many believe the Houston Texans are looking to add an impact offensive tackle. And while some are hesitant to lock themselves into drafting a need, others see right tackle as a necessity even as early as the first round.
Despite what many believe looking at the roster, one analyst suggests the team has its sights set on an impact player at another position.
NFL insider Aaron Wilson believes that the Texans could have interest in bringing in Illinois edge rusher Gabe Jacas through the draft. Clutch Points' Chris Spiering discussed that contention with the following thoughts.
"As long as head coach DeMeco Ryans is at the helm, it does not seem like the Houston Texans will ever stop adding star talent on the defensive side of the ball. Houston had arguably the best defense in the NFL last season; however, Seattle Seahawks fans will argue otherwise, and rightfully so. Either way, Houston's defense won them many games last season, but they fell short in the playoffs against the New England Patriots.
The 2026 NFL Draft is in two days, and rumors are speculating that the Texans will be interested in taking an edge rusher (Gabe Jacas). ...
While Jacas is projected as a second-rounder, the Texans have a high pick and may take the chance on him earlier than expected. If Jacas does fall to the Texans in the second round, then they believe that they will have a future starter alongside Will Anderson Jr. for the foreseeable future. Anderson and the Texans just agreed on a huge contract extension worth $150 million, making him the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history."
To be sure, the Texans are plenty good at edge rusher with star edge Will Anderson Jr. leading the way. Anderson broke news with a historic contract that saw him making up to $50 million per year, quarterback money, annually. That said, it's hard to say no to making a strength a matchup nightmare. And that's what adding an elite edge to an already stout defense can do. Houston possesses the No. 1 defense in the league heading into 2026.
Fixing the offensive line is important. The Texans certainly do not intend to minimize that need. Even so, you don't want to pass on an elite talent to reach for a lesser player at a perceived important position. Houston will look to weigh their options well to come up with the best solution before the draft kicks off on April 23.