WolverineFan
Hall of Fame
- Texans have solidified the #1 selection in the 2014 draft and have hired Bill O'Brien, who developed Tom Brady in New England among other accomplishments. This should ease some worry's about developing a young QB into what this city so desperately needs a franchise QB, above all other Football needs. This is our updated attempt to presume we know something about this years upcoming draft and the prospects who shall fill it. Some adjustments needing to be made with switch from Wade's '5-2 style one-gap 3-4' defense to Crennel's two-gaping 3-4. We hope you enjoy our work, as always its a fluid process, but we've identified key components to upgrade QB, OL, DL/pass rush, LB and RB depth, w/exception of flyer on Colt (plus value & O'Brian prizes big, athletic TE's) are Texan worthy!
1) Teddy Bridgewater - QB, Louisville (6-3, 205)
- Texans fans have been unduly tested over the years when it comes to QB position, so we respect and understand any skepticism directed at prospects for position. However we have both come to consensus that Teddy garners the highest draft grade in his class (assuming he declares for the NFL Draft) beyond any shadow of doubt. He possess the total package of skills needed to become a franchise QB. Both his mind and arm as well as his cool demeanor under stress. He is above a 70% completion average guy that is both accurate and precise in his timing of routes. He gives his receivers the ability to run after catch without breaking stride or putting them in harms way. With 31 TD's to 4 int's in 2013, he is a pocket passer with excellent awareness and athletic ability to move and extend plays. He can play in any system and is one of the few to play in a pro style offense taking snaps under center. There will be many articles written about him now to the end of draft process and QB is the Texans #1 need, so suffice to say, this will assure them of the opportunity to either address this need or use Teddy Bridgewater stock value to trade down and stockpile picks. We are not here to suggest what will happen only that Teddy offers Texans the chance to turnaround this franchise into a winner.
2) Scott Crichton - DE/OLB, Oregon State (6-3, 265)
- Relentless pass rusher, country strong, intense work ethic, can set the edge and excellent run defender as well. Pac-12 1st Team DE who would project to OLB in Romeo Crennel 3-4 scheme, reminds us of some former Patriot OLB's Willie McGiniest/Scott Vrabel. He red-shirted as a freshmen so even though he is officially still listed as underclassman has been @ OSU 4 years hence along with draft grade (where we have him slotted) decided timing right. 6 sacks as freshman, 9 sacks sophomore, 7.5 sacks his Junior season for total of 22.5 sacks in three years. 165 tackles with 51 of those being for loss as a Beaver. Plus athlete as he is football player, displays mean streak, yet disciplined showing ability to hold his water (avoid false starts) yet explosive off line, think smaller compact version of JJ Watt. Here is some film breakdown & analysis -
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1...scott-crichton
3) Morgan Moses - OT, Virginia (6-6, 335)
- OT is the most obvious need on this team outside of QB. With QB addressed already, it’s time to find a RT. Moses is a 4-year starter with 43 career starts under his belt, with the majority of those coming at RT. He played LT as a senior and could have a future there with some development. A massive human being at 6-6, 335 lbs. He is a mauler in the run game who plays with a mean streak and will drive guys off the ball. Great when blocking on the edge or pulling to the outside. If he locks you up when driving it is over. He is also an underrated pass protector. Good technique and good hand use. Has a strong anchor, but needs to work on his flexibility because he tends to play high sometimes. Does a great job of using his length when pass protecting and has great feet when sliding. More athletic than you would expect from a guy his size, but needs to drop a little bit of weight to maximize his athleticism. Should be a quality option to start at RT from day one.
4) Deandre Coleman - DT, Cal (6-5, 320)
- Lacks speed and lateral agility, but is quick and explosive off the ball. Uses his hands well and uses his length to keep separation. Uses his power to knock blockers back and collapse the pocket. Doesn’t do a great job of getting into the backfield because he doesn’t move well laterally, which is why we think he’s a better candidate at NT than DE. Plays high sometimes, but when he anchors he’s tough to move at the point of attack. Played in rotation as an underclassman, but in 2 years as a starter he tallied 87 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. Bring in a vet to platoon him with and let him develop. Has a lot of potential in this kind of defense.
5a) Antonio Andrews - RB, Western Kentucky (6-0, 215)
- Productive and capable feature back to replace Ben Tate. Develop under Foster until ready to take over. Very durable. Rushed for 3463 yards and scored 27 TD's the last two seasons. Can also return kicks and play special teams. Well built, compact with good balance and low center of gravity. Downhill runner with great vision that breaks a lot of tackles. Very good receiver and is dangerous after the catch. Three down back that has starting potential as a pro.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiI9NSFijf0
5b) (compensatory selection based off FA losses) Colt Lyerla - TE, Oregon (6-5, 245)
- 2nd/3rd round talent. Dropped because of drug charges (possession of cocaine), will serve his time (10 days), and be required to complete drug program. After which he will be training in Nevada with Dwight Ross of Performance Athletics in Nevada. Lyerla started 12 games for the Ducks in his career, catching 34 passes for 565 yards and 12 touchdowns. Effective blocker despite his size, but also has the frame to put on more weight. Very effective receiver downfield and in the middle of the field. Only started one year and is pretty raw as a true TE because of spread offense. Has tons of NFL potential for team willing to take the risk.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2WmPZZ3TWI
6) Brandon Thomas - OG, Clemson (6-3, 315)
- Adding multiple quality O-Lineman prospects should be a priority this year and should help bolster trenches. Thomas is a gig, nasty plug 'n play OG with Tackle experience. Has started 35 consecutive games. Was a 1st Team All-ACC selection by coaches in 2013 and in 2012 by media. Played LT against Jadeveon Clowney and held his own. Could become a terrific LG at next level even possibly filling in swing tackle role if needed.
7) Jordan Zumwalt - ILB, UCLA (6-3, 240)
- Tough, physical player. Typical of a late round pick who will compete to make an NFL roster. He has good instincts and can find the ball. Coached under Jim Mora. When initially blocked, his motor will wear down anything technically unsound to beat his man and slip blocks. Finds his way to fill at the point and make plays. In pass coverage, he has a good drop and shows awareness in zone. Will have to earn his way through outstanding special teams play. Will get stronger in the NFL and add some bulk, but still should test well at the combine for his group.
1) Teddy Bridgewater - QB, Louisville (6-3, 205)
- Texans fans have been unduly tested over the years when it comes to QB position, so we respect and understand any skepticism directed at prospects for position. However we have both come to consensus that Teddy garners the highest draft grade in his class (assuming he declares for the NFL Draft) beyond any shadow of doubt. He possess the total package of skills needed to become a franchise QB. Both his mind and arm as well as his cool demeanor under stress. He is above a 70% completion average guy that is both accurate and precise in his timing of routes. He gives his receivers the ability to run after catch without breaking stride or putting them in harms way. With 31 TD's to 4 int's in 2013, he is a pocket passer with excellent awareness and athletic ability to move and extend plays. He can play in any system and is one of the few to play in a pro style offense taking snaps under center. There will be many articles written about him now to the end of draft process and QB is the Texans #1 need, so suffice to say, this will assure them of the opportunity to either address this need or use Teddy Bridgewater stock value to trade down and stockpile picks. We are not here to suggest what will happen only that Teddy offers Texans the chance to turnaround this franchise into a winner.
2) Scott Crichton - DE/OLB, Oregon State (6-3, 265)
- Relentless pass rusher, country strong, intense work ethic, can set the edge and excellent run defender as well. Pac-12 1st Team DE who would project to OLB in Romeo Crennel 3-4 scheme, reminds us of some former Patriot OLB's Willie McGiniest/Scott Vrabel. He red-shirted as a freshmen so even though he is officially still listed as underclassman has been @ OSU 4 years hence along with draft grade (where we have him slotted) decided timing right. 6 sacks as freshman, 9 sacks sophomore, 7.5 sacks his Junior season for total of 22.5 sacks in three years. 165 tackles with 51 of those being for loss as a Beaver. Plus athlete as he is football player, displays mean streak, yet disciplined showing ability to hold his water (avoid false starts) yet explosive off line, think smaller compact version of JJ Watt. Here is some film breakdown & analysis -
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1...scott-crichton
3) Morgan Moses - OT, Virginia (6-6, 335)
- OT is the most obvious need on this team outside of QB. With QB addressed already, it’s time to find a RT. Moses is a 4-year starter with 43 career starts under his belt, with the majority of those coming at RT. He played LT as a senior and could have a future there with some development. A massive human being at 6-6, 335 lbs. He is a mauler in the run game who plays with a mean streak and will drive guys off the ball. Great when blocking on the edge or pulling to the outside. If he locks you up when driving it is over. He is also an underrated pass protector. Good technique and good hand use. Has a strong anchor, but needs to work on his flexibility because he tends to play high sometimes. Does a great job of using his length when pass protecting and has great feet when sliding. More athletic than you would expect from a guy his size, but needs to drop a little bit of weight to maximize his athleticism. Should be a quality option to start at RT from day one.
4) Deandre Coleman - DT, Cal (6-5, 320)
- Lacks speed and lateral agility, but is quick and explosive off the ball. Uses his hands well and uses his length to keep separation. Uses his power to knock blockers back and collapse the pocket. Doesn’t do a great job of getting into the backfield because he doesn’t move well laterally, which is why we think he’s a better candidate at NT than DE. Plays high sometimes, but when he anchors he’s tough to move at the point of attack. Played in rotation as an underclassman, but in 2 years as a starter he tallied 87 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. Bring in a vet to platoon him with and let him develop. Has a lot of potential in this kind of defense.
5a) Antonio Andrews - RB, Western Kentucky (6-0, 215)
- Productive and capable feature back to replace Ben Tate. Develop under Foster until ready to take over. Very durable. Rushed for 3463 yards and scored 27 TD's the last two seasons. Can also return kicks and play special teams. Well built, compact with good balance and low center of gravity. Downhill runner with great vision that breaks a lot of tackles. Very good receiver and is dangerous after the catch. Three down back that has starting potential as a pro.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiI9NSFijf0
5b) (compensatory selection based off FA losses) Colt Lyerla - TE, Oregon (6-5, 245)
- 2nd/3rd round talent. Dropped because of drug charges (possession of cocaine), will serve his time (10 days), and be required to complete drug program. After which he will be training in Nevada with Dwight Ross of Performance Athletics in Nevada. Lyerla started 12 games for the Ducks in his career, catching 34 passes for 565 yards and 12 touchdowns. Effective blocker despite his size, but also has the frame to put on more weight. Very effective receiver downfield and in the middle of the field. Only started one year and is pretty raw as a true TE because of spread offense. Has tons of NFL potential for team willing to take the risk.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2WmPZZ3TWI
6) Brandon Thomas - OG, Clemson (6-3, 315)
- Adding multiple quality O-Lineman prospects should be a priority this year and should help bolster trenches. Thomas is a gig, nasty plug 'n play OG with Tackle experience. Has started 35 consecutive games. Was a 1st Team All-ACC selection by coaches in 2013 and in 2012 by media. Played LT against Jadeveon Clowney and held his own. Could become a terrific LG at next level even possibly filling in swing tackle role if needed.
7) Jordan Zumwalt - ILB, UCLA (6-3, 240)
- Tough, physical player. Typical of a late round pick who will compete to make an NFL roster. He has good instincts and can find the ball. Coached under Jim Mora. When initially blocked, his motor will wear down anything technically unsound to beat his man and slip blocks. Finds his way to fill at the point and make plays. In pass coverage, he has a good drop and shows awareness in zone. Will have to earn his way through outstanding special teams play. Will get stronger in the NFL and add some bulk, but still should test well at the combine for his group.
