Todd McShay predicts the Texans will shore up C.J. Stroud's protection by drafting a promising offensive tackle at No. 28.
Depending on who you ask, the Houston Texans are in need of a replacement right tackle. The Texans, of course, traded away right tackle Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns this offseason. Some believe the team has not done enough to improve there in free agency.
With that, many draft experts are speculating on who the team might add in the NFL draft. NFL draft expert Todd McShay has an idea of who they may target. McShay predicted that the Texans would go after Arizona State Sun Devils offensive tackle Max Iheanachor. He gave the following reasoning on the pick.
"The Texans already have one of the most complete rosters in the NFL—now the focus is getting C.J. Stroud back to his rookie form. The best way to do that is by ensuring the protection and run game remain strong. Houston added RT/OG Braden Smith and RB David Montgomery to pair with Woody Marks, but bringing in a young tackle such as Iheanachor would help solidify the foundation long term.
Iheanachor gives Houston flexibility to get its best five offensive linemen on the field—potentially with him at right tackle and Smith kicking inside to guard—a competition that would sort itself out in training camp.
He’s still developing, particularly working on his hand placement and occasional lunging, which makes sense given that he’s relatively new to football after growing up in Nigeria and not playing high school football. But the traits are undeniable, and his progression in a short amount of time has been impressive."
Arizona State Sun Devils offensive lineman Max Iheanachor (58) blocks Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Trevion Williams (23) during the third quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Petre Thomas-Imagn ImagesFor some, "he's still developing," is a loud deterrent against drafting the Arizona State star player. They would contend that the reason you draft a right tackle is so that he can play right away rather than to develop while other prospects make immediate impacts. That said, McShay still views the player as a worthy first round talent who is rapidly developing as a quality football player.
McShay's draft sees Tennessee defensive back Colton Hood, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Clemson edge T.J. Parker following Iheanachor to end the 2026 NFL draft's first round.
The strong takes on first round worthiness will no doubt be on full display when the Texans draft at No. 28. Nevertheless, Houston has a chance to make a significant roster upgrade despite their late first round spot. The team will look to do so when they select their first player on April 23.