Wolf
100% Texan
Continuing our draft watch series, let's take a look at senior free safety Nate Allen from South Florida.
The Texans primary needs entering the 2010 draft are at running back, free safety, interior offensive lineman, defensive tackle and cornerback assuming Dunta Robinson leaves in free agency.
Allen's projection from NFL Draft Scout is currently early second to fourth round with the 'most likely' estimate being second round.
As I prepared to write this, I couldn't help but think about the Texans needs in the secondary vs. what might actually happen on draft day.
If Dunta Robinson leaves in free agency, which is becoming more likely by the day, then I think the Texans will be drafting a corner fairly early - for sure no later than the third round. With the needs at running back and interior offensive line, free safety could take a back seat until the fourth round making talk about guys like Nate Allen moot.
In terms of free safety, Eugene Wilson returns as the starter, so as long as he stays healthy, the Texans are okay there. But behind Wilson there's a precipitous dropoff in talent so there's that risk to consider. It would be nice if Antwaun Molden could stay healthy for a season because I think he could make a great free safety.
If the Texans draft Earl Thomas in the first round, will their intent be to have him play corner or safety? Thomas has great range and ball skills but he's small for a safety and some scouts think his future in the NFL might be at corner.
http://www.examiner.com/x-778-Houston-Texans-Examiner~y2010m2d19-Texans-draft-watch-FS-Nate-Allen