Texans Pre-Senior Bowl Mock Draft

Trade down from #15. Farther the move more in return. I would like to see the Texans have two second rd. picks, two thirds would be nice too, think last year if not for Slaton the Texans would have a much higher draft pick, Rick & Gary jobs would be on the line. now at least they have a chance to stay the course, fine tune staff & push into contention for the playoffs. It would be nice to get one of the elite prospects everyone knows/wants (BJ Raji, Evertte Brown, Aaron Curry, Rey Maualuga, Brian Orakpo) & if one of those happens to be there, I'm fine with standing pat address a pressing need & take bpa, but I'm just prepared for another scenero like last year.

Have no sound factual basis for selecting any specific teams intention to consumate a trade, could be almost anyone, always try to make it a win-win situation so I"ll make the Vikings a trade partner possiblity, some fallout from last years move to get Sage Rosencopter for a 3rd. Certainly his trade value has decressed but maybe a 4th/5th slot is still a possiblity? combine this with a move from 22 to 15 or 7 spots higher in the draft = 270 points + late fourth to fifth the other points needed to get exhange him for the 2nd rd. pick. this would require of course one of the elite OT's fall to #15 like Oher/Smith, maybe even a franchise QB too like Stafford or Sanchez. In other words for a team to want to trade up there has to be a specific player they have rated #1 on their board still available @ #15.

#15 Minnesota Vikings (via Texans) select- Michael Oher, OT Mississippi 6052 320

#22 Houston Texans (via Vikings) select- Louis Delmas, FS Western Michigan 5-11 197
Ascending up draft boards, can fill the centerfielder prototype of safety NFL teams covet. agressive up the field, elite speed for position, throws his body around similar to a Bob Sanders or Madieu Williams type. The younger Gibbs gets his player just like his dad last year, know you guys are gonna kill me for this selection, Louis who? but I'm following a simple principle really, best defensive player available who fills a desperate need.

2nd rd. (#46) Houston Texans select- Paul Kruger, DE Utah 6-5 265

Impressive high motor 4-3 end with great character/work ethic. think Bulman with more talent, think he fits right in with this team & how they want to attack the line of scrimmage. Still flying under the radar would be availabe here now if the draft where held we'll have to wait & see how much he rises after the combine & personal workouts. addressing #1 need.

2nd rd. (#54) Houston Texans select- Kraig Urbik, OG Wisconsin 6-6 323

Gibbs type of linemen competitive, smart (son of coach) over achiever with excellent skill set to play in ZBS. comes from Big 10 program that produce excellent OL prospects, versatile player who could handle strong-side guard or tackle duties, thats value added & reason why he won't last to the 3rd rd.


3rd rd. (#77) Houston Texans select- Rashad Jennings, RB Liberty 6-1 234
Power back to Slaton led backfield. not sure at all now after watching him in Senior Bowl practice if he is even available here this late in the 3rd, but I would be extremely depressed if he was & the Texans passed on his package of skills he would add thunder to lightning.

4th rd. Houston Texans select- Cody Brown, OLB Connecticut 6-2 242

Hoping he slips through the cracks & falls into the Texans laps, can also be used as situational pass rusher (played DE). would give Bush someone to groom @ OLB position, but would make immediate impact on special teams & as earlier stated situational passing downs. also like Mitch King here, Iowa.

5th rd. Houston Texans select- Brandon Tate, KR/WR North Carolina 6-1 195

Only reason still available is because he tore his acl this past season, let me tell you he is electric DeSean Jackson electric. good route runner with reliable hands, listening Jacoby? when in the game with Hakeem Nicks (insert Andre Johnson) they formed a dynamic duo, once out teams double/tripple teamed Nicks & Carolina fell out of ACC contention.

6th rd. Houston Texans select- Kaluka Maiava, OLB USC 6-0 232

Love his energy level. would compliment Adibi. very aggressive as USC Polynesians go (see Troy Polamaula or Rey Mauluga). Rose Bowl defensive MVP. another stretch to think he's still available here but I'm going best case scenero in this Mock draft (also gives you guys out there some names to watch in the coming weeks).

7th rd. Houston Texans select- Kory Sperry, TE Colorado State 6-5 252

Didn't think the Texans would pass up the chance to select another CSU Buffalo did you? coming nicely off torn acl in 07 of course flying under everybodys radar, except Kubiak. would help red zone effecincey, Brunner is set to retire so there should be roster space for 3rd TE.

thank you for your time if you read this far just buying time until tonights Senior Bowl & no NFL Football this Sunday for the first time since August

Not a big fan of the 2nd round pick (the Guard), as I think one of Unger, Mack, or Luigs would be available and would help out the team much more.

But goddamn do I love the time you put into your mocks.

b0ng said:

Not a big fan of the 2nd round pick (the Guard), as I think one of Unger, Mack, or Luigs would be available and would help out the team much more.

But goddamn do I love the time you put into your mocks.

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thanks, enjoy your posts as well

I like Unger more but he is going much earlier, better prospect than I thought about the only one who could gain any push against Raji.

Mack would be ideal ZBS center, went DE with Texans own 2nd rd. pick since passed on position in first rd. given the options available & talent I see in Delmas. I would rate him even with Urbik so yeah I would be happy to get him & upgrade interior of OL. I'll have to digest the thought of Lugis he plays with such a wide base & first appearence does not fit ZBS.

First off, I'd like to say great work as always.

I like Delmas, but I'm not sure if I like him as a first rounder as of now. I need to try to obtain some more film of him before I'm completely sold on him, but I like what I've seen so far. Solid in coverage and good in run support. You can't really ask for much more than that. I'll also be the first to point out that if this were to happen, we'd have to hear all the "but the last guy from Western Michigan we reached on in the first round busted" posts, but it's whatever.

I love Kruger as a prospect. He may not end up being the pass rusher that Brown or Maybin could end up being, but I think he's better in run support. He reminds me of an Aaron Kampman, who doesn't have top notch measureables, but he has enough talent and is relentless enough to be able to make some plays.

I like Urbik, and the only downside I see in this selection is that we may be better off taking someone who has the ability to play all three interior OL positions. Myers hasn't been super impressive and there's no depth behind him. The same could be said for Brisiel as well though. I think maybe Antoine Caldwell would be better at this pick. He's a total beast and has the ability to play center or either guard spot.

I like Jennings to back up Slaton, and I'm pretty confident he'll be available in the third. He's not going to be a great measureables guy that usually get taken early and he has the small school stigma that has caused guys like Westbrook to fall.

The rest of the picks are all good developmental guys who can contribute right away. Once again, great job.

Paul Kruger, Utah's starting DE, was stabbed twice, suffered a collapsed lung and underwent emergency surgery due to the wounds. And while it doesn't appear to be critical, he is expected to be in the hospital for at least a week. Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said he will release a statement when more is known.
http://www.blocku.com/story/2008/1/20/233023/474
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Some bad news about Kruger. This is a year ago, what's the deal ?

D-ReK said:

First off, I'd like to say great work as always.

I like Delmas, but I'm not sure if I like him as a first rounder as of now. I need to try to obtain some more film of him before I'm completely sold on him, but I like what I've seen so far. Solid in coverage and good in run support. You can't really ask for much more than that. I'll also be the first to point out that if this were to happen, we'd have to hear all the "but the last guy from Western Michigan we reached on in the first round busted" posts, but it's whatever.

I love Kruger as a prospect. He may not end up being the pass rusher that Brown or Maybin could end up being, but I think he's better in run support. He reminds me of an Aaron Kampman, who doesn't have top notch measureables, but he has enough talent and is relentless enough to be able to make some plays.

I like Urbik, and the only downside I see in this selection is that we may be better off taking someone who has the ability to play all three interior OL positions. Myers hasn't been super impressive and there's no depth behind him. The same could be said for Brisiel as well though. I think maybe Antoine Caldwell would be better at this pick. He's a total beast and has the ability to play center or either guard spot.

I like Jennings to back up Slaton, and I'm pretty confident he'll be available in the third. He's not going to be a great measureables guy that usually get taken early and he has the small school stigma that has caused guys like Westbrook to fall.

The rest of the picks are all good developmental guys who can contribute right away. Once again, great job.

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D-Rek spot on as always, hope your right about Jennings still being there. While there are several backs who could help balance the work load with Steve I hope the Texans think enough of him to address this important need early.

Delmas has the type of range & speed mixed with aggressive style Texans fans covet. I hope the Texans reach agreement with Dunta. it would be nice combination so Robinson can be more aggressive without fear losing contact over the top knowing Delmas has his back. would help secondary become more aggressive in Frank Bush new scheme.

Kruger/Urbik are both starting material players on this Texans roster. add Delmas thats three starters. Jennings will not be a starter but he will contribute, add depth & provide a different kind of weapon.

Last four picks are all developmental, your right. I've watched all of them play in College & each one has the potential to someday be a player in the right NFL system. Butch Davis is real positive on Brandon Tate he's coached in the NFL. In College Cody Brown was a dynamic pass rusher (7.5 sacks w/16.5 tackles for loss as Senior) it would be real interesting to see his development with this new coaching staff. Kaluka is a wildcard pick for sure but was real impressive to me both in the Rose Bowl & here in Houston a couple weeks ago at the Shriners game. The Colorado pick is the only one I'm not so sure about but then I had to include at least one Buffalo.

the guys on NFLN summed up Urbik by saying he would do a lot of things good, but none of them great. Can't expand on that too much, but I saw him block Raji better from the G position than Unger did from C.

I think we need help on our OL and a good, solid guy like Urbik seems like a great fit in the 2nd or 3rd rd.

thoughts from the Senior Bowl 2009 game tonight-


Delmas looks like he is gonna be a player in the NFL, I just hope its with the Texans

Kraig Urbik looks like a natural RG. did a nice job, strong & more athletic than he looks

Rashad Jennings is out, like Hell-Boy

Cody played some DE against Oher who had a hard time with his speed, got caught for holding

There are three guys that I'm high on right now and it A.Q. Shipley, Delmas and Sean Smith. I would love Smith over the others since he has the ability to play in different positions as in CB/S.

Sean is a huge cb, what is he like 6-2 or 6-3? not sure about his long speed either? teammate of Kruger @ Utah

A.Q. Shipley is intriquing. a center only, compact would not mind finally landing someone from Penn State, usually very well coached.

if the texans used your trade down method and snagged Smith, Delmas/Chung and Ayers, I would come away from this draft thinking we got a steal.




* Sean Smith
* #4
* Defensive Back
* Utah Utes
Team Home
* Class: Junior 3V
* Height: 6-3
* Weight: 217
* Previous School: Blair HS
* Hometown: Pasadena, California

I'm not a huge fan of Delmas right now. Something just seems off that I can't put into words.

I like the trade down and getting Delmas but personally think he would be a better value around 28-32. But I like the pick. I think this is our biggest need on the team.

I like the Kruger pick in the 2nd. Great great pick.

Like some others I think we can get a better player with our second 2nd round pick. I would sub in either Andy Levitre or a CB or DT.

I do agree that we need to pair up Steve Slaton with a RB from rounds 2 or three. I almost considered using my first #2 on Shonn Greene, but Paul Kruger would be too good to pass on and Greene should be gone before we would get a chance to use our second 2nd round pick.

Great mock man. I hope we get to see a post Senior Bowl mock soon.

just finished reviewing the Senior Bowl as it relates to these players & have a couple more observations I would like to offer.

Louis Delmas is very raw. great instincts but not coached up, has potential to be great no mistake but how confident would the Texans new defensive staff particularly David Gibbs deveolping a project with the 1st pick? in the final analysis he could be a great pick but key word is could be? coaching call, scouting wise complete package of tools just needs to refine skills.

Paul Kruger is a redshirt sophomore so he was not invited. was impressed with Ayers good size/speed with some good pass rush moves. We'll have to see how he does @ the combine if impressive I would bring him for a workout.

Kraig Urbik is an NFL ready guard. when he matched up against Peria Jerry he stoned him, rode him off or drove him back, looked like he just gave up trying to make a play until Urbik was replaced then he gave that guy all kinds of hell. I really enjoyed not only how Urbik could dominant his man he was quick to shed & help on the edge, thats something Winston needs at times, or slip inside & help the Center. wherever he choose to engage the penetration was quickly denied. he shined even better during the game than in practice, this kid is a grinder & a player to keep an eye on.

Andre Brown stole the running back show (anyone else catch the announcers saying Andre Johnson?) anyway he over shawdowed fine performances from both Jennings & Johnson. I would have to consider throwing him into the 3rd mix despite his injury history.

Cody Brown DE/OLB was the only other player in this mock to get invited. played mostly DE but see his position there only as situational back-up @ best probably move into a SLB role does have good laterial quckness but it would be a transition to a new positon for him.

be on the lookout for a steal @ CB in 4th like Francies Coye, San Jose State long frame/length smooth hips (grade him 3rd rd.)

Ellis Lancaster, West Virginia flashed quickness, was aggressive good run support & open field tackler (5th).

b0ng said:

Not a big fan of the 2nd round pick (the Guard), as I think one of Unger, Mack, or Luigs would be available and would help out the team much more.

But goddamn do I love the time you put into your mocks.

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And you'd be wrong . Urbrik was one of the guys I was really impressed with.
What we don't know is what does the mushroom king think of Studard or White.

Liked Trevor Canfield as well. All of these centers....two of them can play four positions, two of them can handle the three on the inside....how can you pass that up after the performance we watched Saturday ? I mean you got the extra ammo and you say no thanks ?

Rather have Robert Ayers or Sidbury there but you've got the other guy.

Don't believe they will draft anything they can't put on the field this year.

Getting a future bargain with Tate but I don't believe they will do it.

Want a play maker, take the So. Miss. TE, Shawn Nelson. He blocks and great insurance if we have a disaster and Daniels goes down. Lot of production chips riding on OD's back. Got a roster spot open with Brunrer's retirement. Mayock raved about him all week. I wouldn't mind the LSU Fullback , Quinn Johnson on day two as the short yardage -green zone specialist. He had a terrific game Saturday.

can't wrap my mind around a 6-four RB. But Andre Brown had a great week and a great game.

YoungTexanFan said:

I'm not a huge fan of Delmas right now. Something just seems off that I can't put into words.

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Yeah the guy is chiseled like Achilles and had 111 tackles last year..led the team... runs in the four fives....real shaky. Do you watch these guys play or just throw darts YTF ?

I like Canfield as well pete but I believe he was arrested a year ago.

Wouldn't expect him to be on McNair's watch list...

bah007 said:

I like Canfield as well pete but I believe he was arrested a year ago.

Wouldn't expect him to be on McNair's watch list...

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Didn't know about the arrest. thanks. You know with the last two draft classes no one has an excuse for not shoring up their o-lines. Guards are a little down this year, but the centers more than make up for it. With Oher on the board...Seattle has the choice of Oher, who fits perfectly and the elite Wide out, they take the elite wide out Seattle deserves what their going to get the next three or four seasons.

LonerATO said:

There are three guys that I'm high on right now and it A.Q. Shipley, Delmas and Sean Smith. I would love Smith over the others since he has the ability to play in different positions as in CB/S.

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I like Shipley also....but he is a center only. He'd have a tough time making the roster. He'd have to beat out a veteran. Make a good PS guy though.

I'm standing pat with Louis Delmas as the Texans 1st rd. selection, ideally by trading down. but his ascending stock worrys me, who knows in three months if this would even be possible, remember Dunta Robinson (ran a 4.34 expect Louis to time out @ the combine close to that).

If Orakpo or Evertte Brown is off the board in the 1st & the Texans address FS instead, then Texans need to regroup & target the best DE available in 2nd. I'm not sure how much of the hype plays into these Utah prospects but that athletic demonstration against SEC Alabama was eye opening. http://utahutes.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/kruger_paul01.html

Urbik just screams Gibbs. love the way he competes, his package of skills from hand placement to footwork are both natural & you can tell he's been extremely well coached. Wisconsin has an excellent track record moving O linemen to the next level, see Joe Thomas http://www.uwbadgers.com/sport_news/fb/headlines/story.html?sportid=111&storyid=16480 this is primarily a run oriented offense averaging 200 yards per game 2nd in the Big 10. one of Kraig's key skill set is hand placement its easier for him than most interior guys to get his long arms (33 1/2 LT length) into the pads to redirect & steer away from the pocket. he also has surprising quick feet to redirect loads & gain leverage (this is all my own stuff guys). in the final analysis he projects to be a much more effective NFL OG than he is currently rated, IMO & is a huge upgrade for the Texans @ RG.

I like trading down a few picks, especially if the main targets the Texans want come off the board early. I'd like to see a MLB so DeMeco can move to OLB and a DT.

LATexansFan said:

I like trading down a few picks, especially if the main targets the Texans want come off the board early. I'd like to see a MLB so DeMeco can move to OLB and a DT.

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here's another trade down possiblity that involves a coveted MLB-

Southern Cal LB Rey Maualuga, who won the Bednarik Award as the nation's top defensive player, is one of the most coveted players entering the NFL draft. But that hasn't stopped the Bucs, who own the No. 19 overall pick, from getting to know him better at the Senior Bowl. Maualuga saved his last interview Tuesday for the Bucs, who project him as a middle linebacker. That position is currently manned by Barrett Ruud, the team's leading tackler. "They're focused in on the middle linebacker position for myself and asking me if I'm comfortable with the 4-3 scheme or the 3-4," Maualuga said. "I'm comfortable with both." - Rick Stroud, The Tampa Bay Times

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the question is would you do it? Texans should throw the draft value trade table out & demand the Buc's 2nd rd. pick straight up for dropping four spots.

beerlover said:

here's another trade down possiblity that involves a coveted MLB-



the question is would you do it? Texans should throw the draft value trade table out & demand the Buc's 2nd rd. pick straight up for dropping four spots.

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If Maualuga falls to us and we don't (my opinion and reasoning aside) want to draft him, demanding a second from a team would be easy. San Diego is sitting right behind us, and I don't see any way they would pass on him. We can demand the second rounder if he is at our pick because there are no other options before they lose him.

I think we'd be better off just picking him but if we know someone is targeting the guy and we don't at least extort them a little bit...well...what's the point of even having extortion?

TimeKiller said:

I think we'd be better off just picking him but if we know someone is targeting the guy and we don't at least extort them a little bit...well...what's the point of even having extortion?

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I'd prefer them just to go ahead and pick Ray if he falls to them. I don't think he will fall that far though.

My big thing would be if Raji fell in our laps at #15. WOW.

Probably not gonna happen but it would be nice. Give TJ and Okoye some competition for playing time. We gotta do something to those guys to light a fire.

I wouldn't have a problem if they traded down to a team later in the draft if they felt Unger would be there out of Oregon. As much as we need some defensive help, it would be tough to pass on Unger later in teh draft if Rey, Raji, or maybe Everette Brown isn't there at #15. We have never had an above average Center since Day One. It would be nice to plug a guy in that could solidify the position/line for the next decade.

I don't see Brown or Raji being available to the Texans at the 15 mark, too many teams ahead of us are moving to the 3-4 and will need guys like that.

for those of us who would like to see Rick Smtih resign Dunta Robinson & draft him some help over the top in his own likeness here is some excerpts from the fine work of Lance Zierlein talking to scouts "post senior bowl"

* "My favorite safety in this draft is Louis Delmas (W. Michigan). I love the way he'll hit you and I think he's good enough in coverage too."

* (answering a question about Alabama safety Rashad Johnson being considered a 2nd round): "Who says that? Who has that grade? He's not as big as you like for you safeties to be in our league and he doesn't do any one thing exceptionally well. I've got a 5th [round grade] on him. I would take Darcel McBath (Texas Tech safety) every single day of the week over him. The more film I've seen of him, the more and more I like him."

http://blogs.chron.com/fantasyfootball/

While I would like to see us sign Dunta to a 4-5 year contact at a reasonable amount, I just don't see it happening. I fully expect him to be F-tagged and evaluated for another year.

LonerATO said:

I don't see Brown or Raji being available to the Texans at the 15 mark, too many teams ahead of us are moving to the 3-4 and will need guys like that.

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Raji will probably be there. I'm not convinced though that it isn't a lateral move for the team. Lot of people are sold on him in here from what I'm reading that's for sure. I'll post this one more time...then give up...if you're going to slant the DTs through the gaps....you damn well better have the line backers who can scrape and fill in the holes.

edo783 said:

While I would like to see us sign Dunta to a 4-5 year contact at a reasonable amount, I just don't see it happening. I fully expect him to be F-tagged and evaluated for another year.

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Isn't that the whole point ? If you tag him....you got to pay him the agerage of the top five....about eight million for the year. Is that what you're posting ? You're going to pay Duanta seven to eight million for he year in '09 ? I don't care either way. Just don't know , with his production with turnovers, if he's worth that much coin.

threetoedpete said:

Raji will probably be there. I'm not convinced though that it isn't a lateral move for the team. Lot of people are sold on him in here from what I'm reading that's for sure. I'll post this one more time...then give up...if you're going to slant the DTs through the gaps....you damn well better have the line backers who can scrap and fill in the holes.

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Yeah, he wouldn't be my pick either, I am looking for an edge rush DE. I think you are probably right in it being a sort of a....lateral type of move. He is a quality player, just not the type/biggest need for us IMO.

beerlover said:

Trade down from #15. Farther the move more in return. I would like to see the Texans have two second rd. picks, two thirds would be nice too, think last year if not for Slaton the Texans would have a much higher draft pick, Rick & Gary jobs would be on the line. now at least they have a chance to stay the course, fine tune staff & push into contention for the playoffs. It would be nice to get one of the elite prospects everyone knows/wants (BJ Raji, Evertte Brown, Aaron Curry, Rey Maualuga, Brian Orakpo) & if one of those happens to be there, I'm fine with standing pat address a pressing need & take bpa, but I'm just prepared for another scenero like last year.

Have no sound factual basis for selecting any specific teams intention to consumate a trade, could be almost anyone, always try to make it a win-win situation so I"ll make the Vikings a trade partner possiblity, some fallout from last years move to get Sage Rosencopter for a 3rd. Certainly his trade value has decressed but maybe a 4th/5th slot is still a possiblity? combine this with a move from 22 to 15 or 7 spots higher in the draft = 270 points + late fourth to fifth the other points needed to get exhange him for the 2nd rd. pick. this would require of course one of the elite OT's fall to #15 like Oher/Smith, maybe even a franchise QB too like Stafford or Sanchez. In other words for a team to want to trade up there has to be a specific player they have rated #1 on their board still available @ #15.

#15 Minnesota Vikings (via Texans) select- Michael Oher, OT Mississippi 6052 320

#22 Houston Texans (via Vikings) select- Louis Delmas, FS Western Michigan 5-11 197
Ascending up draft boards, can fill the centerfielder prototype of safety NFL teams covet. agressive up the field, elite speed for position, throws his body around similar to a Bob Sanders or Madieu Williams type. The younger Gibbs gets his player just like his dad last year, know you guys are gonna kill me for this selection, Louis who? but I'm following a simple principle really, best defensive player available who fills a desperate need.

2nd rd. (#46) Houston Texans select- Paul Kruger, DE Utah 6-5 265

Impressive high motor 4-3 end with great character/work ethic. think Bulman with more talent, think he fits right in with this team & how they want to attack the line of scrimmage. Still flying under the radar would be availabe here now if the draft where held we'll have to wait & see how much he rises after the combine & personal workouts. addressing #1 need.

2nd rd. (#54) Houston Texans select- Kraig Urbik, OG Wisconsin 6-6 323

Gibbs type of linemen competitive, smart (son of coach) over achiever with excellent skill set to play in ZBS. comes from Big 10 program that produce excellent OL prospects, versatile player who could handle strong-side guard or tackle duties, thats value added & reason why he won't last to the 3rd rd.


3rd rd. (#77) Houston Texans select- Rashad Jennings, RB Liberty 6-1 234
Power back to Slaton led backfield. not sure at all now after watching him in Senior Bowl practice if he is even available here this late in the 3rd, but I would be extremely depressed if he was & the Texans passed on his package of skills he would add thunder to lightning.

4th rd. Houston Texans select- Cody Brown, OLB Connecticut 6-2 242

Hoping he slips through the cracks & falls into the Texans laps, can also be used as situational pass rusher (played DE). would give Bush someone to groom @ OLB position, but would make immediate impact on special teams & as earlier stated situational passing downs. also like Mitch King here, Iowa.

5th rd. Houston Texans select- Brandon Tate, KR/WR North Carolina 6-1 195

Only reason still available is because he tore his acl this past season, let me tell you he is electric DeSean Jackson electric. good route runner with reliable hands, listening Jacoby? when in the game with Hakeem Nicks (insert Andre Johnson) they formed a dynamic duo, once out teams double/tripple teamed Nicks & Carolina fell out of ACC contention.

6th rd. Houston Texans select- Kaluka Maiava, OLB USC 6-0 232

Love his energy level. would compliment Adibi. very aggressive as USC Polynesians go (see Troy Polamaula or Rey Mauluga). Rose Bowl defensive MVP. another stretch to think he's still available here but I'm going best case scenero in this Mock draft (also gives you guys out there some names to watch in the coming weeks).

7th rd. Houston Texans select- Kory Sperry, TE Colorado State 6-5 252

Didn't think the Texans would pass up the chance to select another CSU Buffalo did you? coming nicely off torn acl in 07 of course flying under everybodys radar, except Kubiak. would help red zone effecincey, Brunner is set to retire so there should be roster space for 3rd TE.

thank you for your time if you read this far just buying time until tonights Senior Bowl & no NFL Football this Sunday for the first time since August

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props, dude. i don't agree with everything, but that is just hair-splitting. and the rationale is well-articulated and possible.

I've resigned to the fact if the Texans cannot trade down they go with best defensive player left on their board. from work I've done projected pick will be -

1st. rd. Brian Cushing, OLB USC. Senior Bowl measureables, 6031 243 almost 10" hands & 32" arms. near ideal for Texans strong side OLB (SLB). DeMeco remains MLB with good chance of fat extension to seal the deal. Diles coming off injury would be his back-up while Adibi gets his shot starting weakside, there the Texans are now set @ LB.

This certainly effects my remaining picks whom remain solid choices if available, but must change to be accurate to current projections with Texans needs, now knocking out LB in the first rd. the first big question: Is Delmas or Kruger still on the board? NO Delmas is going to move up into the first while Kruger stock is rising to the top of the 2nd. I still feel the Texans will look to address DE in the 2nd rd. its just too big of need & elite prospects will soon all be off the board.

2nd. rd. Robert Ayers, DE Tennessee 6031 273. basicly 30 pounds heavier than Cushing with same measureables. not a tweener, a pure pass rushing DE to fill the void opposite Mario Williams. has some decent pass rush moves to build around powerfully built athlete with ability to anchor and split double-team blocking off the edge. What stood out to me @ the Senior Bowl was his ability to use his hands to keep the tackles from grabing or latching onto him thus shedding easily showing some explosive suddenness to close down on the QB & this is excatly what the Texans want to come away with after the frist day of the 09 draft.

3rd. rd. Lawerence Sidbury, DE/OLB Richmond, 6023 265 10 1/2" hands 35" arm length. surprise pick from small school once again as the Texans hammer away to solidify the pass rush. has unlimited upside but is a developmental project who will play special teams & be that situational pass rusher while providing some depth. I would still take Jennings but I think his stock is rising right off the Texans board in the 3rd. rd. It's also possible he gets some reps & SLB providing insurance in case of Cushing gets injured (which he is prone to do) of if Diles struggles coming back. anyway this official knocks out both the DE & OLB positions Texans going defense with their first three picks.. of course they resign Dunta Robinson so CB is not such a huge need.

4th. rd. Quinn Johnson, FB/RB LSU 6006 251 Powerful, agressive skilled athlete to compliment Steve Slaton. runs north & south excellent lead blocker, can pluck the ball easily out of the backfield then turn & run after the catch. step one to improve red zone effeicency- inside running attack. loves contact.

5th. rd. A.Q. Shipley, Center Penn State 6010 297 step 2 to improve red zone effeicency- leverage & muscle to win the point of attack & keep the pocket from collapsing. Not sexy picks for you guys I know, but think of it as addressing primary needs on defense first then tweeking the offense where it struggled last season, oh yeah can I have just one Penn State OL? Texans need a strong anchor in pass protection, that does not get bull-rushed. He plays low keeps leverage & uses a wide base, can fit ZBS & very important for Schaub is adept in the shotgun which you cannot understate the importance of in a passing attack these days. my one question is can he also double as the long snapper? if he can that really helps his stock & is like adding a roster spot.

6th. rd. Ellis Lankster, CB West Virginia 5091 191 love his athletic ability & fight for the ball. I think he could also play FS. flashes some playmaker moxie. good in run support solid open field tackler. If you've watched any West Virgina football you would know they are loaded with speed & play to their strengths, Ellis plays with that typical mountainer flair. 2nd team all-acc conference with 63 tackles 3 int's & 7 break-ups.

7th. rd. Bernard Scott, RB Abilene Christian 5105 199 Small school prospect, from watching Texas vs. Nation Scott hits the hole quick w/2nd gear in open field http://www.acusports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=40868&SPID=3615&DB_OEM_ID=8900&ATCLID=3658724. invited to combine so don't laugh too loud he might just be one of the fastest rb's in this draft? – ran for 2,156 yards (second in LSC and ACU single-season history behind his 2,165 yards in 2007) and 28 touchdowns and caught 47 passes for 826 yards and another six touchdowns. He led NCAA Division II in points per game (17.0) and all-purpose yards (256.8 yards per game) and was second in rushing, averaging 179.7 yards per game. http://www.acusports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=40868&SPID=3615&DB_OEM_ID=8900&ATCLID=3654842 a JC transfer Scott was named the game's (div.II championship) MVP after rushing for 193 yards and one touchdown on 22 carries. Scott averaged 154.4 rushing yards per game, and he finished his only junior college season with a junior college-best 1,892 yards and 27 touchdowns.

rd1 Cushing
Love the pick, true SAM LB that this team has needed for along time. Bonus is that he has pass rush ability. Fits Bush defense like a glove
rd2 Ayers
Love this pick, Most well rounded DE in draft IMO will look great opposite MW
rd3 Sidberry
Love this pick, Has more potential to improve than any DE in the draft. Versatile enough to play SAM can rush the passer from day 1, The front 4 should look like this on 3rd down DE MW DT AO DT Ayers (has size to play DT on 3rd down DE Sidberry young pure pass rusher. No more giving Manning 5-6 seconds to throw.
rd4 Q. Johnson
I would rather get a S like N. Harris, C. Vaughn or S-LB N. Harris
rd5 Shipley
Give me G. Johnson because I picked him in the RB thread
rd6 Lankster
Love this pick he really impressed me in the all-star games
rd7 Scott
Dont know much about him, I would take R. Schuman C VA TECH no Texans draft is complete without a pick from VA Tech Schuman is very underrated (Solid) IMO

This is the best Texans mock that I've seen. Great job

steelbtexan said:

rd1 Cushing
Love the pick, true SAM LB that this team has needed for along time. Bonus is that he has pass rush ability. Fits Bush defense like a glove
rd2 Ayers
Love this pick, Most well rounded DE in draft IMO will look great opposite MW
rd3 Sidberry
Love this pick, Has more potential to improve than any DE in the draft. Versatile enough to play SAM can rush the passer from day 1, The front 4 should look like this on 3rd down DE MW DT AO DT Ayers (has size to play DT on 3rd down DE Sidberry young pure pass rusher. No more giving Manning 5-6 seconds to throw.
rd4 Q. Johnson
I would rather get a S like N. Harris, C. Vaughn or S-LB N. Harris
rd5 Shipley
Give me G. Johnson because I picked him in the RB thread
rd6 Lankster
Love this pick he really impressed me in the all-star games
rd7 Scott
Dont know much about him, I would take R. Schuman C VA TECH no Texans draft is complete without a pick from VA Tech Schuman is very underrated (Solid) IMO

This is the best Texans mock that I've seen. Great job

Click to expand...

thank you, that means a lot.

Main observation is that the Texans should be on a quest to address their defensive shortcomings early in this draft, yet not over reaching because of needs. Even if they double up in a positon early like DE/OLB at least they're covering bases, making sound, smart calculated moves after all you don't always know right away what you have until they put those pads on Sundays & get a little PT maybe a couple years worth.

Watched Gartrell Johnson in the East West Shrine & came away with mixed reviews. yes he could fit in the ZBS, has nice size 5-11 224 & would add depth to the backfield, but he does not flash quickness in the hole & this is critical in ZBS & reason why Steve was such a huge success. I don't know maybe this is something you can coach up? but if your not explosive hitting those holes they quiclclose, leaving RB exposed & in a physcial battle mis-match with a DT or MLB which most of the time they're going to lose.

The mighty Quinn translates right away to NFL in multiple situations giving him an array of assests & versatility from FB, to red-zone inside/power RB, special teams, heck maybe even a little LB. He is a supurb well rounded athlete who loves to hit people, something the Texans have lacked - to win the physical battles take back the line of scrimmage & add another layer of protection for Schaub.

just after blowing some poor guy up for a TD, here is one catching the ball in space with soft hands From left) Charles Scott, Quinn Johnson, Richard Murphy and Keiland Williams (Photo by Matt Deville)

Great picture

I would like to see the Texans pick Keiland next year in the 3rd or 4th rd.

I think he's better than Scott.

Kind of like when Ronnie Brown was stuck behind Cadillac Williams @ Auburn.
I'm not comparing talent just crowded backfield situations.

I liked the way that you double dipped on DE's in the 2nd & 3rd rds that way you have the luxury of if you miss on one you still have the position covered plus those are mmy two favorite non first rd. DE's. Although Ayers may have moved into the end of rd. one.

Not so sure Sidbury won't demonstrate an ability to stand up at the Sam next week. He's got the arms to fight off the bigger o-lineman. Just saying he wouldn't be a bad option to Back up Dilles if they PUP Dilles out of camp.
Cushing at the will and Sidbury at the Sam...make for some very interesting combo rushes on third down. The only question about Lb is can he flip his hips turn and run. He should have no problem when it comes to scraping and filling in the holes.

I'd have no problem with that hall. Young 'uns at corner will have to grow up fast if they lose Dunta.

I think your running backs compliment Slaton perfectly. The Young man is chasing his money. You do nothing to upset his frame of mind....like draft a stud RB early.

After hitting defense hard first day I would like to see the Texans make pure plays to upgrade both red zone effeicency on offense, toughness around Schaub w/versatile cap friendly willing prospects who can cover more than one position. this is the true measure of total value a draft class can bring.

anybody here going or have gone through a diagonostic test @ work? I'm applying the same supply chain organization review to drafting future buisness aquistions, remember its a buisness with a set budget, so if you can get two or three jobs done by one can you imagine the savings? in this case the savings go to keeping players like Dunta Robinson, Andre Johnson, Mario Williams & DeMeco Ryans just to name a few. Cushing/Ayers going forward with Sidbury chasing hard. the role players Quinn, Shipley, Langster & Scott may start as role players but have the opportunity to work hard, impress & surprise people too.

Quinn as discussed if anyone didn't pay attention to last year in the NFL the FB position is wide open to make the Pro-Bowl. In Kubiaks system the FB plays a much more prominent role than most, maybe 2-3 drops underneath to the FB over the tackle or in the flats. then of course blocking to protect the QB & short yardage, 1st down marker, red-zone goal line stands. Quinn has the look of a player who could fit this role for Kubiak, fast track him all the way to the Pro-Bowl as Slatons lead blocker & short yardage running mate.

Shipley is one of those second tier Center prospect lacks ideal size, measureables like reach & speed but he does fit the ZBS. much as I like Urbik to play OG I see a smart, competitive spark-plug who can establish the point agaisnt much bigger NT's using strong wide lower base, playing nasty & using quickness to create inside running lanes. this really helps Matt/Slaton ability to run the ball which sets up play action. I would love to be a fly on the wall & watch A.Q. battle Meyers to see who starts, Gibbs would relish in the competition.

Everyone knows I like to see the Texans trade down & take my favorite FS Louis Delmas. Lankster is not Delmas but he can become a very good FS IMO thats really good value for a 6th rd. pick. I know last year they took Barber in the 6th who I like but seems to be more of a SS prospect, Ellis is a pure cover cb who has make-up speed to patrol centerfield like a FS the Texans need. Solid in run support good tackling technique flashes make-up speed w/playmaker ability, disruptive engaged with WR fighting body position uses hands up in window.

Bernard Scott adds speed to the backfield. reminds me a little of Chris Johnson attacking style, sharp cuts & change of direction but runs N & S. I wonder if he can play some in the slot or return kicks? pure instinctive athlete with raw ability. specualtive pick, boom or bust, but he does impress me enough with his speed I'd take a chance this late.