Be on the lookout for Jamari Johnson during the upcoming football season.
The Houston Texans were almost exclusively mocked for offensive linemen throughout the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, which proved to be right after selecting guard Keylan Rutledge. However, because of that increased focus, other needs on the roster weren’t brought up. One of these spots are at tight end. Fortunately for them, the 2027 NFL Draft has some potential options to fill this need, particularly Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson.
Clearly, it’s way too early to begin naming prospects as a perfect fit for the Texans. Things can, and will, change throughout the football season. Regardless, fans should still keep an eye on Johnson throughout the year as a potential target in the offseason. CBS analyst Josh Edwards noticed this and mocked Johnson to them in his first mock draft. His athleticism, pass-catching upside, and blocking make him an intriguing prospect who will make his presence known on Oregon's offense.
“Houston has not had a difference-making tight end, and perhaps that is not by design, but it has always been a key element to the San Francisco offenses,” Edwards wrote. “There was some criticism of Kenyon Sadiq's production this season, but it was partly due to Jamari Johnson's inclusion.”
Oregon just produced a first-round tight end in Kenyon Sadiq, but some analysts are already saying Johnson’s the greater talent. The six-foot-five, 257-pound prospect had a fantastic 2025 campaign with 32 receptions for 510 yards and three touchdowns.
On its own, these stats are great. However, they become exponentially more impressive when you look closer. In his first eight games, Johnson averaged 16.6 yards per game. After that, he carved out a bigger role and totalled 53.9 yards per contest in the final seven weeks.
Johnson’s pass-catching prowess stems from his absurd athleticism. He’s a matchup nightmare, dominating opposing safeties and outclassing linebackers. Additionally, he’s a good route runner, which helps him create consistent separation.
While Johnson won’t take out opposing defensive linemen as a blocker, he holds his own and eliminates second-level defenders from the play. This is largely due to his excellent pound-for-pound strength and technique. He plays with amazing leverage and is consistently lower than his competition.
Overall, it’s too early to name Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson as a perfect fit for the Texans, but fans should keep an eye on him throughout the season. His elite athleticism, pass-catching upside, and run blocking make him an elite prospect and someone who will make waves during the 2026 college football season.