Another terribly early 2013 Texans mock.

[Wolf6151]

It's 4:30 am and I'm bored at work so I thought I'd throw together a quick mock since no one has done one in a while. This mock is based on keeping Schaub, Barwin, Brown and drafting in the late 20's.

1. Cobi Hamilton-WR from Arkansas, he's currently listed by Walter and CBS as a 2nd round prospect but he'll be a senior and has a very good QB prospect returning. He should be the #1 WR at Arkansas this year and have a big year, I think he moves up. Good size and average speed, lots of SEC experience.

2. Mycah Hyde-CB from Iowa, very good size for a CB in the NFL and good speed. Also good college productivity, and adds some quality depth to the team. You can never have enough good CB's.

3. Sylvester Williams-DT from N.C., this pick might take some luck but I like his size and mobility, good agility for a big man. He'd work in a rotation with Earl Mitchell at NT after Sean Cody leaves due to FA.

3b. Xavier Nixon-OT from Florida, he's a little light weight for the OT position but with his height and age he should be able to add some weight without losing quickness/agility. Butler may be gone after this next season and though the Texans seem high on Newton, Nixon would be the backup/swing OT and it would give him time to add the bulk.

4. Patrick Larimore-ILB from UCLA, quality depth behind Cushing, James, and Dobson or may take the other ILB rotational position away from James or Dobson and alot less expensive.

5. Prentiss Waggner-FS/CB from Tennessee, great size and speed for the position and I like a FS with CB coverage experience.

5b. Quinton Patton-WR from LA Tech, he might move higher with a good year so this pick might take some luck as well but he's currently listed by Walter and CBS in the 5th-7th rounds. Good size, speed, athleticism, ball concentration, field awarness, and doesn't seem afraid of contact.

6. A.J. Francis-DT from Maryland, I like his size and speed. Also has decent college productivity for a DT and Maryland produces some good athletes. Depth on the D-line and plays on jumbo packages, short yardage or goal line plays. Added bulk on the D-line is never a bad thing.

7. BPA, I'm thinking maybe a blocking TE, FB, maybe some depth at OG, RB or WR wouldn't hurt either.

Opinions?

P.S. 0430 hrs. sucks.

 

[steelbtexan]

I would be very happy with the Hamilton/Hyde picks. Hamilton has way above avg speed.

Dont know much about the other draft picks.

 

[rmartin65]

It's 4:30 am and I'm bored at work so I thought I'd throw together a quick mock since no one has done one in a while. This mock is based on keeping Schaub, Barwin, Brown and drafting in the late 20's.

1. Cobi Hamilton-WR from Arkansas, he's currently listed by Walter and CBS as a 2nd round prospect but he'll be a senior and has a very good QB prospect returning. He should be the #1 WR at Arkansas this year and have a big year, I think he moves up. Good size and average speed, lots of SEC experience.

2. Mycah Hyde-CB from Iowa, very good size for a CB in the NFL and good speed. Also good college productivity, and adds some quality depth to the team. You can never have enough good CB's.

3. Sylvester Williams-DT from N.C., this pick might take some luck but I like his size and mobility, good agility for a big man. He'd work in a rotation with Earl Mitchell at NT after Sean Cody leaves due to FA.

3b. Xavier Nixon-OT from Florida, he's a little light weight for the OT position but with his height and age he should be able to add some weight without losing quickness/agility. Butler may be gone after this next season and though the Texans seem high on Newton, Nixon would be the backup/swing OT and it would give him time to add the bulk.

4. Patrick Larimore-ILB from UCLA, quality depth behind Cushing, James, and Dobson or may take the other ILB rotational position away from James or Dobson and alot less expensive.

5. Prentiss Waggner-FS/CB from Tennessee, great size and speed for the position and I like a FS with CB coverage experience.

5b. Quinton Patton-WR from LA Tech, he might move higher with a good year so this pick might take some luck as well but he's currently listed by Walter and CBS in the 5th-7th rounds. Good size, speed, athleticism, ball concentration, field awarness, and doesn't seem afraid of contact.

6. A.J. Francis-DT from Maryland, I like his size and speed. Also has decent college productivity for a DT and Maryland produces some good athletes. Depth on the D-line and plays on jumbo packages, short yardage or goal line plays. Added bulk on the D-line is never a bad thing.

7. BPA, I'm thinking maybe a blocking TE, FB, maybe some depth at OG, RB or WR wouldn't hurt either.

Opinions?

P.S. 0430 hrs. sucks.

I missed this thread 3 weeks ago, my bad man.

1) Hamilton- I dont know a ton about the guy, when I watched Arkansas last year he never stood out to me. But just looking at size and athleticism, he is a player worth keeping an eye on. However, I feel that you are reaching for a position of need, rather than grabbing a better player at a different position, and then looking to fill the WR hole in the 2nd or 3rd.

2) I love Hyde, one of the better DBs in the draft. If it turns out he is too slow for CB, he should be able to play FS in the NFL. Also, the guy loves ST. Love this pick.

3) Big NT prospect, you know I love the idea. He is definitely one to watch for next year, and 3rd round seems about right. As you said, he is a gamble, but worth the risk here.

3b) I really think an OT is going to be drafted. I did some research on this guy after you dropped his name in another thread, and I was impressed.

4) Larimore retired, as mentioned in a different thread. Bummer, because I also thought he would make a heck of a pro, as did beerlover.

5) Waggner- I know nothing about the guy. I think you may be grabbing too many DBs, as the position looks pretty well filled on the Texans.

5b) With this many picks, it cant hurt to take a gamble on some raw small schoolers that could be home runs. Patton has caught my eye as well.

6) I like the other Maryland DT better (Vellano), but he is going to go in the 4th round (in that range). You cant ever have too much DLine depth, so rock on.

7) You have BPA here, but I am going to suggest looking for an OLB here. In the 3-4, like I have said, I see an OLB being drafted every year.

All in all, it is a good list of people to look into for the next year. Nice job.

 

[Wolf6151]

I missed this thread 3 weeks ago, my bad man.

1) Hamilton- I dont know a ton about the guy, when I watched Arkansas last year he never stood out to me. But just looking at size and athleticism, he is a player worth keeping an eye on. However, I feel that you are reaching for a position of need, rather than grabbing a better player at a different position, and then looking to fill the WR hole in the 2nd or 3rd.

2) I love Hyde, one of the better DBs in the draft. If it turns out he is too slow for CB, he should be able to play FS in the NFL. Also, the guy loves ST. Love this pick.

3) Big NT prospect, you know I love the idea. He is definitely one to watch for next year, and 3rd round seems about right. As you said, he is a gamble, but worth the risk here.

3b) I really think an OT is going to be drafted. I did some research on this guy after you dropped his name in another thread, and I was impressed.

4) Larimore retired, as mentioned in a different thread. Bummer, because I also thought he would make a heck of a pro, as did beerlover.

5) Waggner- I know nothing about the guy. I think you may be grabbing too many DBs, as the position looks pretty well filled on the Texans.

5b) With this many picks, it cant hurt to take a gamble on some raw small schoolers that could be home runs. Patton has caught my eye as well.

6) I like the other Maryland DT better (Vellano), but he is going to go in the 4th round (in that range). You cant ever have too much DLine depth, so rock on.

7) You have BPA here, but I am going to suggest looking for an OLB here. In the 3-4, like I have said, I see an OLB being drafted every year.

All in all, it is a good list of people to look into for the next year. Nice job.

Thanks for the input...

1. Yes I might be reaching for position over taking BPA but I think our need at WR can't wait til the end of the 2nd or 3rd rounds when the top WR's will be gone by then. We've got good depth pretty much every where else on the team, it's time to take a top WR and develop them. I'm looking for a guy that can be a #2 quickly with potential to be a future #1. I think there's a better than average chance that this could be Walter's last year with the Texans and although I like Marten in the slot at #3 WR, I don't think Posey will ever be anything more than a #4 rotational guy and the same can be said for Jean. I think we need a big time improvement in quality and youth at WR, thus the reason for the Patton pick in the 5th as well. Hamilton is currently listed as a 2nd round pick but I think he's in a great position to move up to the 1st round. All the great WR talent ahead of him last year graduated Arkansas to the NFL so he'll be "The Man" at WR and he's got a top QB slinging him the ball in Tyler Wilson. He's poised for a climb in the rankings much more so than Terrance Williams who will have QB issues at Baylor now that RGIII is gone, and I'm not sure what the QB situation is like for Marquess Wilson at Wash. St.. I think Justin Hunter goes before us in the 1st but Da'Rick Rogers might be a possibility as well.

2. I'm glad you like Hyde as well but remember this mock was done several weeks ago before the emergence of our youthful secondary in TC and preseason game 1. If everyone does well this year CB could possibly be lowered in priority or taken off completely.

3. I think Shaun Cody and Antonio Smith both stand a good chance of being gone at the end of this season so an athletic big man is a must and Sylvester Williams would work in the rotation with Earl Mitchell at NT. Also the reason for the pick of A.J. Francis in the 6th, added depth of big men on the D-line.

3b. I agree an OT will be drafted and I think Nixon has great size and speed for the position. Butler could be gone after this season and Newton will need some competition at RT as well as a new backup swing OT. He'll need to add some bulk but he's got the height to carry it.

4. Larimore has retired and I wish him well. Just like #2 this was done prior to the emergence of our current ILB's and could possibly be lowered in priority or taken off completely due to the good play of James, Dobbins, Louiseau, and Alexander. I think we've got some decent depth here.

5. The secondary is looking good so far, Waggner would simply be competition with Nolan and Demps at FS. Maybe an improvement. I like a FS with CB experience and Waggner has great size for the position.

5b. See #1.

6. See #3.

7. I couldn't really think of another position to pick some depth for. I disagree with another OLB, I just don't see the need. Maybe a top notch FB like Zach Boren from Ohio St. or another WR. If we draft a bunch of WR someone's got to turn out to be useful.

 

[badboy]

The recent two preseason games have me re-working my 2013 mock. I'm hoping to remove WR from my first round. Got to keep fluid.

 

[Wolf6151]

The recent two preseason games have me re-working my 2013 mock. I'm hoping to remove WR from my first round. Got to keep fluid.

Agree completely, have to stay fluid. I'm adjusting ILB, and CB on my list of needs. I'm still going with WR #1 though, I like what I see from Jean and Martin, but still want a big time WR to be a current #2 and future #1. I've seen other mocks that have us going OT in the 1st round, that might be necessary as well.

BB, I'd like to see a current mock from you.

 

[badboy]

Agree completely, have to stay fluid. I'm adjusting ILB, and CB on my list of needs. I'm still going with WR #1 though, I like what I see from Jean and Martin, but still want a big time WR to be a current #2 and future #1. I've seen other mocks that have us going OT in the 1st round, that might be necessary as well.

BB, I'd like to see a current mock from you.

I think Butler may be odd man out by 2013 if Newton is as good as Kubes seems to be saying. I'm still not all in on Caldwell who allegedly did well last 2 games. I am pretty serious about a RG who could play RT. I will be watching A&M's Jake Matthews (great in ZBS) and Alabama's Ricky Wagner who is more of a road grader type, very strong and who IIRC had problems only with a guy you might known named Whitney Mercilus. Barrett Jones should be gone but he excelled at OG before Alabama moved him to OT last season and he is penciled in to start at center. We should be able to get a good player in first if needed. I too am cautious about WR but Jean impressed me against SF and Kubes says he can be great.

 

[beerlover]

I think Butler may be odd man out by 2013 if Newton is as good as Kubes seems to be saying. I'm still not all in on Caldwell who allegedly did well last 2 games. I am pretty serious about a RG who could play RT. I will be watching A&M's Jake Matthews (great in ZBS) and Alabama's Ricky Wagner who is more of a road grader type, very strong and who IIRC had problems only with a guy you might known named Whitney Mercilus. Barrett Jones should be gone but he excelled at OG before Alabama moved him to OT last season and he is penciled in to start at center. We should be able to get a good player in first if needed. I too am cautious about WR but Jean impressed me against SF and Kubes says he can be great.

I would like to see Ben Jones take some RG reps. He is such a competitive, hard core player he needs to be on the field more, not just as Myers back-up.

 

[Dutchrudder]

I would like to see Ben Jones take some RG reps. He is such a competitive, hard core player he needs to be on the field more, not just as Myers back-up.

Yeah, they need to keep spreading around the reps, because the right side of this o-line is not doing well in the run-game. I would like to see Jones at guard just to try him. If he's better than Caldwell or Brooks, then they should start him. He can still be the backup center and start at guard if needed. Caldwell can also play center from what I remember, so there shouldn't be a problem. At this point, and it is early, I'm thinking RT may warrant a 1st/2nd round pick next year.

Also, we have to consider that Wade Smith probably won't be on the team next year, because we will need to spend his 3 million in salary elsewhere. Might need a Guard and RT in the next draft.

 

[steelbtexan]

Yeah, they need to keep spreading around the reps, because the right side of this o-line is not doing well in the run-game. I would like to see Jones at guard just to try him. If he's better than Caldwell or Brooks, then they should start him. He can still be the backup center and start at guard if needed. Caldwell can also play center from what I remember, so there shouldn't be a problem. At this point, and it is early, I'm thinking RT may warrant a 1st/2nd round pick next year.

Also, we have to consider that Wade Smith probably won't be on the team next year, because we will need to spend his 3 million in salary elsewhere. Might need a Guard and RT in the next draft.

Agreed

Brooks, Newton and Jones along with Brown are the future of the Texans OL. They have the ability. They just need more experience in the ZBS.

 

[beerlover]

Agreed

Brooks, Newton and Jones along with Brown are the future of the Texans OL. They have the ability. They just need more experience in the ZBS.

Brooks has surprisingly quick feet for a man his size, not so much speed which means he can get in front & stay in front of edge rushers. Got me to thinking when you brought up the future of Texans OL. How about this, Duane Brown LT, Derek Newton LG, Myers Center, Ben Jones RG & Brandon Brooks RT? Brandon actually has superior arm length to Winston would bring back pancaking off edge, pulling downfield & destroying people in the running game that Winston was so adept at doing. Jones is nasty in tight space, will fight scratch & claw to protect his QB & can reach the second level in ZBS as well. Newton is athletic, stunning hand punch would lock down left side with Duane. Mondek will replace Butler as the swing tackle. That would make-up the no fun, don't want to face that Texan OL which could dominate opponents.

Draft related, if this is not applicable then I might just target OT with 1st selection? Can't go wrong with a Matthews, Jake is another in long line of talented NFL pedigree who would solidify an already talented, young OL.

 

[steelbtexan]

Brooks has surprisingly quick feet for a man his size, not so much speed which means he can get in front & stay in front of edge rushers. Got me to thinking when you brought up the future of Texans OL. How about this, Duane Brown LT, Derek Newton LG, Myers Center, Ben Jones RG & Brandon Brooks RT? Brandon actually has superior arm length to Winston would bring back pancaking off edge, pulling downfield & destroying people in the running game that Winston was so adept at doing. Jones is nasty in tight space, will fight scratch & claw to protect his QB & can reach the second level in ZBS as well. Newton is athletic, stunning hand punch would lock down left side with Duane. Mondek will replace Butler as the swing tackle. That would make-up the no fun, don't want to face that Texan OL which could dominate opponents.

Draft related, if this is not applicable then I might just target OT with 1st selection? Can't go wrong with a Matthews, Jake is another in long line of talented NFL pedigree who would solidify an already talented, young OL.

I think you will be seing a that combination of OL in 2013. However Newton will probably be playing RT and Brooks LG.

BTW, I would love the Matthews pick. (10 yr starter) I really hope the Wr's step up and Wr isn;t a huge need in next yrs draft, So far Martin and Jean have really impressed me.

 

[Wolf6151]

Martin and Jean have impressed me as well but not enough to remove WR off our list of 2013 draft needs. I think Martin looks very good in the slot as #3WR and with some experience I think Jean has potential to take Walters position next year at #2WR. For the time being I'll keep WR at the top of my list of needs for the 1st round. I'd still like a big time WR that can be a current #2WR with potential to be a #1WR soo. I agree with Jones getting more playing time, I'd like to see him with the 1's at either LG or RG. If the experiment works great if not at least we tried and Jones got some reps. and experience. I really hope that Newton can get better and lock down the RT position either this year or next year and for years to come, eliminating RT as a need in next years draft, we'll see. Butler just isn't playing as well as I expected.

 

[badboy]

Brooks has surprisingly quick feet for a man his size, not so much speed which means he can get in front & stay in front of edge rushers. Got me to thinking when you brought up the future of Texans OL. How about this, Duane Brown LT, Derek Newton LG, Myers Center, Ben Jones RG & Brandon Brooks RT? Brandon actually has superior arm length to Winston would bring back pancaking off edge, pulling downfield & destroying people in the running game that Winston was so adept at doing. Jones is nasty in tight space, will fight scratch & claw to protect his QB & can reach the second level in ZBS as well. Newton is athletic, stunning hand punch would lock down left side with Duane. Mondek will replace Butler as the swing tackle. That would make-up the no fun, don't want to face that Texan OL which could dominate opponents.

Draft related, if this is not applicable then I might just target OT with 1st selection? Can't go wrong with a Matthews, Jake is another in long line of talented NFL pedigree who would solidify an already talented, young OL.

Just my view but after only two preseason games, I'm seeing Brown, Smith, Myers, Brooks and Newton by midseason. I think Kubes likes Newton at RT and he wants to send message to Butler who will be a FA to keep pushing Newton. Brooks could be a good RT but he has LG written all over him and I think he is Wade Smith's replacement. Jones has body style for OG but I'd rather keep him learning this difficult position behind Myers.

You can call me a terse crystal ball reader all you want but until salary cap loosens, we better start replacing higher dollar vets with younger, cheaper guys. I think Jones can replace Myers in 2013 and an OG/RT like Matthews who could start day one is way to go. 2013: Brown, Brooks, Jones, Matthews and Newton locks the line for years.

 

[Dutchrudder]

Just my view but after only two preseason games, I'm seeing Brown, Smith, Myers, Brooks and Newton by midseason. I think Kubes likes Newton at RT and he wants to send message to Butler who will be a FA to keep pushing Newton. Brooks could be a good RT but he has LG written all over him and I think he is Wade Smith's replacement. Jones has body style for OG but I'd rather keep him learning this difficult position behind Myers.

You can call me a terse crystal ball reader all you want but until salary cap loosens, we better start replacing higher dollar vets with younger, cheaper guys. I think Jones can replace Myers in 2013 and an OG/RT like Matthews who could start day one is way to go. 2013: Brown, Brooks, Jones, Matthews and Newton locks the line for years.

Myers isn't going anywhere until at least 2014. His new contract makes sure that he will be on the team the next two years, and starting. His guaranteed money will be paid out at the end of year two, but he will still have a 2 million signing bonus cap hit for the last two years of his deal. If anything, we should be hoping for Jones or Brooks to replace Wade Smith, who only had 750k guaranteed in signing bonus to worry about next year. We could save his 3 million in salary.

 

[badboy]

Myers isn't going anywhere until at least 2014. His new contract makes sure that he will be on the team the next two years, and starting. His guaranteed money will be paid out at the end of year two, but he will still have a 2 million signing bonus cap hit for the last two years of his deal. If anything, we should be hoping for Jones or Brooks to replace Wade Smith, who only had 750k guaranteed in signing bonus to worry about next year. We could save his 3 million in salary.

2013 Myer's cap should be $5.5m & 2014 $7m. If cut, his remaining guarantee is $3.5m + accelerated bonus for 3years would be $6m or a $9.5m cap hit which I agree would be high. So I agree 2014 would be first year to consider.

I have Brooks replacing Smith.

 

[Wolf6151]

BB & DR O-line discussion leads to a couple certainties and a few questions regarding the outlook of the O-line in 2013 and how it relates to the draft. I'd really like to solidify the O-line but I can see it possibly changing alot in the 2013 as well. 2 certainties are that Brown will be at LT and Myers will be at Center. Questions, will Brooks improve enough to take one of the OG spots and will Newton improve enough to own the RT spot? I had thought of Brooks as Caldwells eventual replacement but BB's idea of him replacing the more expensive W. Smith at LG is a good one. It also makes financial sense, since cutting W. Smith and re-signing Caldwell would be cheaper than the reverse, I just can't see replacing both OG spots and RT in one year. Caldwells not great but he's not bad either and I think we can re-sign him alot cheaper than W. Smith. I agree with keeping Jones at backup interior O-line since I think he can play any of the 3 inside spots, though I would like to see him get some game time reps. for experience sake. Provided we let Butler walk and Newton is the future at RT then we'd only have to draft for depth at OT and possibly OG is S. Smith doesn't improve. Assuming we get a comp. pick in the 3rd then I'm guessing one of those 3rd round picks would be an OT.

BB hit the nail on the head when he said you've got to stay fluid with your outlook on the 2013 draft because the outlook is changing on the O-line and I can forsee next offseason being even bloodier with all the salary cap cuts than this last offseason was.

 

[badboy]

BB & DR O-line discussion leads to a couple certainties and a few questions regarding the outlook of the O-line in 2013 and how it relates to the draft. I'd really like to solidify the O-line but I can see it possibly changing alot in the 2013 as well. 2 certainties are that Brown will be at LT and Myers will be at Center. Questions, will Brooks improve enough to take one of the OG spots and will Newton improve enough to own the RT spot? I had thought of Brooks as Caldwells eventual replacement but BB's idea of him replacing the more expensive W. Smith at LG is a good one. It also makes financial sense, since cutting W. Smith and re-signing Caldwell would be cheaper than the reverse, I just can't see replacing both OG spots and RT in one year. Caldwells not great but he's not bad either and I think we can re-sign him alot cheaper than W. Smith. I agree with keeping Jones at backup interior O-line since I think he can play any of the 3 inside spots, though I would like to see him get some game time reps. for experience sake. Provided we let Butler walk and Newton is the future at RT then we'd only have to draft for depth at OT and possibly OG is S. Smith doesn't improve. Assuming we get a comp. pick in the 3rd then I'm guessing one of those 3rd round picks would be an OT.

BB hit the nail on the head when he said you've got to stay fluid with your outlook on the 2013 draft because the outlook is changing on the O-line and I can forsee next offseason being even bloodier with all the salary cap cuts than this last offseason was.

Excellent post and not just because you agree with me (but it helps!). 1st to make sure all understand my thoughts; it would be nice if we could build a roster and keep our vets until retirement. That ain't happening in today's NFL. We should remember that Studdard started for at least one season and then was hurt in second (IIRC). He was brought back this off season but could not beat out Caldwell. I discussed Brooks with my mock draft partners Rmartin65 and Beerlover but it was pointed out he was probably too heavy for us. IMO, he is perfect size & we now know his quickness of foot will lock down the left side with Brown.Not only does that protect our QBs but it would allow us to run better to that side. W.Smith will be 32 April 2013 & his base for '12 is $2m and '13 $3m. That is not too bad but he has $4m in bonus for next two season to add for cap. If cut that total is escalated. Caldwell is in his final contract year @ $ 650,000. Unless he has a very good season, why re-sign? It may be economically better to let Smith play out next two seasons & decide what to do with C. after 2012.

 

[beerlover]

This is my terribly early Texans Mock Draft for 2013 - (hopefully Texans select 32nd).

First Round: Jake Matthews, OT(JR) 6-5 305 Texas A&M

Lock down right side with ability to swing over if needed left side without losing a step. Texans OL would be officially loaded to help keep Schawb healthy as he takes hometown discount to extend his career as a Houston Texan. This is a great value too if he opts out to enter the NFL early.

Second Round: Josh Boyd, DT/NT, 6-3 300 Mississippi State

Bumped up player/position because both fit better late 2nd to upgrade middle of Wade's 3-4 with Boyd's upside to become one of the leagues best young nose tackles. More upside than Mike Martin, Michigan who if taken by Texans last draft would be in there fighting for starting minutes now. I realize the majority of Texan fans would prefer a sexier pick like WR in the first couple rounds (we were just there last draft) but I'm keeping it old school, smash mouth in the trenches taking OL then DL in first two rounds.

Third Round: Chris Borland, ILB(JR), 5-11 242, Wisconsin

Per 65 recommendation & superior eye for talent, switched ILB to Wisconsin "honey badger" Chris Borland who in his words, "that guy there is a football player". Look people if Sharpton could stay healthy, which he can't, it would be a different story. It's time if the right player is available who could step in immediately & contribute to fortify the inside of defense. Boyd & Borland for office!

Fourth Round: Michael Williams, TE, 6-5 272 Alabama

Texans need a true blocking TE especially in short yardage & goal-line stands. Williams is a massive, powerful & athletic blocker who can help seal the edge or create cut-back lanes for Foster & Tate. The 4th rd. has been a popular choice for Kubiak/Smith to take a TE.

Fifth Round: Dan Buckner, WR, 6-3 215 Arizona

Feel good about LeStar Jean's progress year two as undrafted free agent. Buckner is sort of carbon-copy, long-strider, deep threat & field stretcher. His teammate, Juron Criner, a far more polished WR taken 5th rd. by Oakland & looking good in camp so far.

Sixth Round: Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB, 6-0 192 Connecticut

Big cover corner coming off Knee injury. If he fully recovers in less than one year (doubt it) he could still be on the board late? Texans will probably take a shot every draft in secondary when a player meets their system requirements.

Seventh Round: Carson York, OG, 6-5 292 Oregon
ZBS guard with experience both sides. Very quick, technically sound. See his stock rising, have really been impressed with Duck OL now for several years & they always seem to produce decent late round prospects who stick. Center Hroniss Grasu could be the highest Duck OL drafted in years when he comes out in a couple years, his play is outstanding.

with a little help from my friends-

 

[rmartin65]

This is my terribly early Texans Mock Draft for 2013 - (hopefully Texans select 32nd).

First Round: Jake Matthews, OT(Jr.) 6-5 305 Texas A&M

Lock down right side with ability to swing over if needed left side without losing a step. Texans OL would be officially loaded to help keep Schawb healthy as he takes hometown discount to extend his career as a Houston Texan. This is a great value too if he opts out to enter the NFL early.

Second Round: Kevin Reddick, ILB, 6-2 240 North Carolina

DeMeco was shipped off without having his legitimate replacement compounded with some bad luck to Sharpton's recovery, I think its time to move on & upgrade with elite talent for position.

Third Round: Josh Boyd, DT/NT, 6-3 300 Mississippi State

I honestly don't think Texans have a true starter, even with Cody not injured playing nose tackle. Mike Martin, Michigan was pounded to be selected in the 3rd round by many draft posters here, the need remains & trigger needs to be pulled to address interior DL.

Fourth Round: Michael Williams, TE, 6-5 272 Alabama

Texans need a true blocking TE especially in short yardage & goal-line stands. Williams is a massive, powerful & athletic blocker who can help seal the edge or create cut-back lanes for Foster & Tate. The 4th rd. has been a popular choice for Kubiak/Smith to take a TE.

Fifth Round: Dan Buckner, WR, 6-3 215 Arizona

Feel good about LeStar Jean's progress year two as undrafted free agent. Buckner is sort of carbon-copy, long-strider, deep threat & field stretcher. His teammate, Juron Criner, a far more polished WR taken 5th rd. by Oakland & looking good in camp so far.

Sixth Round: Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB, 6-0 192 Connecticut

Big cover corner coming off Knee injury. If he fully recovers in less than one year (doubt it) he could still be on the board late? Texans will probably take a shot every draft in secondary when a player meets their system requirements.

Seventh Round: Carson York, OG, 6-5 292 Oregon

ZBS guard with experience both sides. Very quick, technically sound. See his stock rising, have really been impressed with Duck OL now for several years & they always seem to produce decent late round prospects who stick. Center Hroniss Grasu could be the highest Duck OL drafted in years when he comes out in a couple years, his play is outstanding.

enjoy

Great to see your mock BL.

I really like going OT in the first, and Matthews is as good as any OT eligible for the draft. If he is there, money.

Again, I really like the position you are taking here, but unlike your first round pick, I dont really like Reddick. I dont know why, maybe I just need to watch UNC more (and I do plan to this season), but something about the guy just seems off. There are some Big 10 inside 'backers that should be available in the 3rd round that I am more interested in.

Dang BL, do you have my draft needs sheet or something? I really like grabbing a NT. I dont know a ton about your guy, but he is a proven talent in the rough and tough SEC. I will definitely keep an eye on him this year.

Seriously, you are taking my notes. While I am planning on drafting a TE earlier than you have here, I like the fact that you target the position early. However, he is definitely more of a blocking TE than what I am looking for. If OD is healthy, then that is great. We could use a blocking specialist (remember the pick of Hill out of NCState a couple years ago). But if OD remains to be an injury risk, and GG goes not step up, we could use a more established receiver at the position.

Buckner has the look of a number 2 receiver. Sign me up.

I dont know anything about the CB, but I think that grabbing some depth late is a pretty solid idea.

And I dont know anything about York either, but again, I like grabbing depth along the OL.

In summation, I would be stoked if the real draft turned out around these lines.

 

[badboy]

This is my terribly early Texans Mock Draft for 2013 - (hopefully Texans select 32nd).

First Round: Jake Matthews, OT(Jr.) 6-5 305 Texas A&M

Lock down right side with ability to swing over if needed left side without losing a step. Texans OL would be officially loaded to help keep Schawb healthy as he takes hometown discount to extend his career as a Houston Texan. This is a great value too if he opts out to enter the NFL early.

Second Round: Kevin Reddick, ILB, 6-2 240 North Carolina

DeMeco was shipped off without having his legitimate replacement compounded with some bad luck to Sharpton's recovery, I think its time to move on & upgrade with elite talent for position.

Third Round: Josh Boyd, DT/NT, 6-3 300 Mississippi State

I honestly don't think Texans have a true starter, even with Cody not injured playing nose tackle. Mike Martin, Michigan was pounded to be selected in the 3rd round by many draft posters here, the need remains & trigger needs to be pulled to address interior DL.

Fourth Round: Michael Williams, TE, 6-5 272 Alabama

Texans need a true blocking TE especially in short yardage & goal-line stands. Williams is a massive, powerful & athletic blocker who can help seal the edge or create cut-back lanes for Foster & Tate. The 4th rd. has been a popular choice for Kubiak/Smith to take a TE.

Fifth Round: Dan Buckner, WR, 6-3 215 Arizona

Feel good about LeStar Jean's progress year two as undrafted free agent. Buckner is sort of carbon-copy, long-strider, deep threat & field stretcher. His teammate, Juron Criner, a far more polished WR taken 5th rd. by Oakland & looking good in camp so far.

Sixth Round: Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB, 6-0 192 Connecticut

Big cover corner coming off Knee injury. If he fully recovers in less than one year (doubt it) he could still be on the board late? Texans will probably take a shot every draft in secondary when a player meets their system requirements.

Seventh Round: Carson York, OG, 6-5 292 Oregon

ZBS guard with experience both sides. Very quick, technically sound. See his stock rising, have really been impressed with Duck OL now for several years & they always seem to produce decent late round prospects who stick. Center Hroniss Grasu could be the highest Duck OL drafted in years when he comes out in a couple years, his play is outstanding.

enjoy

I am down with 1st and 3rd but like 65 I am concerned about Riddick. If you remember I mocked him before but want to watch him. Matthews being there is slight but possible and he will be a starter just not until Smith is gone. He could replace Butler who is a FA.

 

[beerlover]

Great to see your mock BL.

I really like going OT in the first, and Matthews is as good as any OT eligible for the draft. If he is there, money.

Again, I really like the position you are taking here, but unlike your first round pick, I dont really like Reddick. I dont know why, maybe I just need to watch UNC more (and I do plan to this season), but something about the guy just seems off. There are some Big 10 inside 'backers that should be available in the 3rd round that I am more interested in.

Dang BL, do you have my draft needs sheet or something? I really like grabbing a NT. I dont know a ton about your guy, but he is a proven talent in the rough and tough SEC. I will definitely keep an eye on him this year.

Seriously, you are taking my notes. While I am planning on drafting a TE earlier than you have here, I like the fact that you target the position early. However, he is definitely more of a blocking TE than what I am looking for. If OD is healthy, then that is great. We could use a blocking specialist (remember the pick of Hill out of NCState a couple years ago). But if OD remains to be an injury risk, and GG goes not step up, we could use a more established receiver at the position.

Buckner has the look of a number 2 receiver. Sign me up.

I dont know anything about the CB, but I think that grabbing some depth late is a pretty solid idea.

And I dont know anything about York either, but again, I like grabbing depth along the OL.

In summation, I would be stoked if the real draft turned out around these lines.

Awesome!

Here's the deal & we can work it from here. Gotta have Boyd, better chance in. 2nd anyway so replace Riddick with him & insert your choice of Big 10 ILB for 3rd round.

 

[rmartin65]

Awesome!

Here's the deal & we can work it from here. Gotta have Boyd, better chance in. 2nd anyway so replace Riddick with him & insert your choice of Big 10 ILB for 3rd round.

Haha, deal.

Wisconsin's Chris Borland would be my 3rd rounder in this scenario. He is short (5'11"), but not undersized at 250 lbs. He is one of those players that you see on tape and go "that guy there is a football player".

 

[steelbtexan]

Haha, deal.

Wisconsin's Chris Borland would be my 3rd rounder in this scenario. He is short (5'11"), but not undersized at 250 lbs. He is one of those players that you see on tape and go "that guy there is a football player".

Love Borland,

BL, This is a great preseason mock.

WR is also looks very deep and Mettenberger might be a very good late 1st/2nd rd pick.

Although I've just started looking at next yrs draft.

 

[Wolf6151]

BL, here's my analysis of your latest mock. Honestly you provided me with several names I wasn't familiar with so I had to do some homework and read up on some of these guys. I like what I read on most of them. Overall good job though we differ on the priority of some positions you've got good players and some guys worth keeping a close eye on.

The only player I didn't like was Michael Williams-TE, I agree with the need at the positions but I'd like a guy who's more of a pass catcher and Williams seems mostly to be a blocking TE. It is a weak TE class though so finding a guy in the 4th is hard.

I'd also like for York to add some weight/bulk but at 6'05" adding some weight without losing agility/athleticism should be easy.

 

[76Texan]

Who can we find as big MoFo at MIKE now that Wade wants to see Cushing at the MO?

This guy also needs to be able to stay with a TE in the short area.

Or do you guys think James can hold up for a few more years?

 

[Wolf6151]

Who can we find as big MoFo at MIKE now that Wade wants to see Cushing at the MO?

This guy also needs to be able to stay with a TE in the short area.

Or do you guys think James can hold up for a few more years?

I don't see ILB as that big of a need, remember it's only a 2 down position anyway since Cushing will stay in the game and the other ILB will come out on nickle or dime coverage. I also think that James is adequate yet unspectacular at the position, while Dobbins appears to me to be even better than James. There's also Alexander and Louiseau, who I think makes the practice squad as depth. That's 4 guys vying for 1 starting spot plus depth, and in case of emergency I think Braman could handle the ILB spot adequately if necessary. Thus I don't think we'd spend anything more than a 5th round pick here if that.

 

[Rey]

I don't see ILB as that big of a need, remember it's only a 2 down position anyway since Cushing will stay in the game and the other ILB will come out on nickle or dime coverage. I also think that James is adequate yet unspectacular at the position, while Dobbins appears to me to be even better than James. There's also Alexander and Louiseau, who I think makes the practice squad as depth. That's 4 guys vying for 1 starting spot plus depth, and in case of emergency I think Braman could handle the ILB spot adequately if necessary. Thus I don't think we'd spend anything more than a 5th round pick here if that.

Agreed, except I could see us spending as high as a 3rd on an ilb and maybe higher just depending on who falls where.

Nothing wrong with having a guy that can step in if Cushing misses time and also be a stand out on special teams.

But like you said I don't think that would be a priority and more of a luxury.

 

[rmartin65]

Who can we find as big MoFo at MIKE now that Wade wants to see Cushing at the MO?

This guy also needs to be able to stay with a TE in the short area.

Or do you guys think James can hold up for a few more years?

I would not like to rely on James for more than this year. Sure he may be able to play for a couple years, but it is simply not prudent to not have a future starter at the ready.

However, there are not a lot of "big MoFo" types that are highly rated as of yet. Most of the guys that caught my eye last year were the playmakers at the position. And I think that if we had 2 playmaking ILBs, that Wade could create one hell of a defense. Just so long as both ILBs can withstand the punishment of taking on the OL every now and again.

 

[beerlover]

I like Brady, excellent pick up similar to Manning. To go one on one with Jimmy Graham is asking alot. No safety help? Blown coverage or by design? Texans have to game plan better against such a weapon to take him out of the game. Big CB. McMannis or Ball. Or a Wreh-Wilson. RT is gonna be a problem. NT? Texans don't have one who can play everydown. Schaub/Yates need more protection, Williams is like an extra OT, which helps pick up blitzes. WR? Big problem. Didn't know Posey was out but I need to see some production from somebody else not named Andre. Oh yeah, did I mention OL depth a concern?

 

[badboy]

I think many of us will be watching ILBs, OGs and OTs this college season. Did you see that DeCastro injured his knee? That has to impact Uncle Ben.

http://m.washingtonpost.com/sports/...d770f2-efde-11e1-b74c-84ed55e0300b_story.html

 

[Wolf6151]

I think many of us will be watching ILBs, OGs and OTs this college season. Did you see that DeCastro injured his knee? That has to impact Uncle Ben.

http://m.washingtonpost.com/sports/...d770f2-efde-11e1-b74c-84ed55e0300b_story.html

I saw that yesterday, really sucks for him to lose his rookie season. Hopefully he'll be back good as new next year.

 

[Dutchrudder]

I am down with 1st and 3rd but like 65 I am concerned about Riddick. If you remember I mocked him before but want to watch him. Matthews being there is slight but possible and he will be a starter just not until Smith is gone. He could replace Butler who is a FA.

I think Matthews will be there in the late 1st round. This past year, OTs that were highly rated around the draft community were falling well into the second round. It seems that teams were valuing the OT position (mainly RT) as less important than other needs, mainly on defense. That might be due to the explosive offensive season we just witnessed last year though. Plus, there are about 6-9 OTs that are rated to go in the 1st/2nd rounds, so there should be plenty of talent for the Texans to choose a good one. Both of the Texas A&M OTs are going to be drafting this year, and I'd be happy with either one of them.

 

[badboy]

I think Matthews will be there in the late 1st round. This past year, OTs that were highly rated around the draft community were falling well into the second round. It seems that teams were valuing the OT position (mainly RT) as less important than other needs, mainly on defense. That might be due to the explosive offensive season we just witnessed last year though. Plus, there are about 6-9 OTs that are rated to go in the 1st/2nd rounds, so there should be plenty of talent for the Texans to choose a good one. Both of the Texas A&M OTs are going to be drafting this year, and I'd be happy with either one of them.

My initial reaction when re doing my mock was Matthews in first and Travis Frederick OG/Center Wisconsin in second. I thought Newton would lock RT and Caldwell or Jones would back up Brooks at RG. My concerns about DBs over ruled.

 

[Wolf6151]

At this time I think it's pretty obvious we need to get alot better at RT, no one should disagree with that statement, but I don't think RT is a 1st round need. There are many good OT's in next years draft and I think a very good RT can be had in the 2nd or 3rd rounds. Right now CBS has 11 OT's ranked as 3rd round or higher candidates, and Walterfootball has 14 as being worth at least a 3rd round pick. I know those numbers will change between now and April, but I agree with DR's observation that RT does not need to be a 1st round pick. Also next years draft seems to be pretty deep at many positions so expect, like this year, some pretty good talent to fall and be had in the middle rounds. Hopefully we'll all be pleasantly surprised by the improvement of Newton during the season, we'll decide that RT isn't a big need after all and we only need a new swing OT as depth.

 

[beerlover]

Brooks has surprisingly quick feet for a man his size, not so much speed which means he can get in front & stay in front of edge rushers. Got me to thinking when you brought up the future of Texans OL. How about this, Duane Brown LT, Derek Newton LG, Myers Center, Ben Jones RG & Brandon Brooks RT? Brandon actually has superior arm length to Winston would bring back pancaking off edge, pulling downfield & destroying people in the running game that Winston was so adept at doing. Jones is nasty in tight space, will fight scratch & claw to protect his QB & can reach the second level in ZBS as well. Newton is athletic, stunning hand punch would lock down left side with Duane. Mondek will replace Butler as the swing tackle. That would make-up the no fun, don't want to face that Texan OL which could dominate opponents.

Draft related, if this is not applicable then I might just target OT with 1st selection? Can't go wrong with a Matthews, Jake is another in long line of talented NFL pedigree who would solidify an already talented, young OL.

What do you guys think about Brooks getting some reps @ RT now

 

[steelbtexan]

What do you guys think about Brooks getting some reps @ RT now

This needs to happen.

God forbid if anything happens to Brown at LT.

 

[badboy]

Ryan Harris? Best we could do I guess but his 3 back surgeries concern me. Wonder who we tried to trade Nolan for?

 

[beerlover]

Ryan Harris? Best we could do I guess but his 3 back surgeries concern me. Wonder who we tried to trade Nolan for?

When drafted, Ryan's durability was considered a plus, four year starter for Notre Dame. If not for injury he would still be a Bronco, they may live to regret this move & Texans could very well have saved their QB/season, hence worth the risk

I think it would be fitting if were to start week 3 in Denver against his old team

ps watched the Arkansas State Oregon game tonight & starting an untested, Red Wolf does not inspire much confidence in my viewpoint.

 

[beerlover]

the redshirt freshman QB from Oregon, Mario-Ta maybe the best prospect I've ever seen at his position. stay posted.

 

[beerlover]

the redshirt freshman QB from Oregon, Mario-Ta maybe the best prospect I've ever seen at his position. stay posted.

Not sure Kirby is accurate (benefit of doubt) but he just did a game day promo (College Game Day in Eugene today) that Mariota is the #1 rated passer in the country. More importantly undefeated & in the National BSC discussion assuming they win out. Only a freshman, like Manzel these two young men are both dynamic leaders. I give the edge to Mariota because he is developing plus arm strength & is still growing @ 6'4". Both have 4.4 speed. Father was born in American Samoa, Mother is of German decent & was a strong swimmer who declined scholarship offers to pursue other interests, she revealed Marcus told his parents back in grade school, “He wrote,” says his mother Alana, “‘I’m going to go to school at Saint Louis and play football, then move to USC, then the NFL, and I’ll marry a soccer player.’” which explains his admiration/respect for both his parents which exposes a plus character check mark.

Kelly had been tipped off by Oregon offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Mark Helfrich, who’d attended a Saint Louis practice during Mariota’s junior season. It was a particularly breezy day as the wind whistled down Saint Louis Heights and, as Toa puts it, “Marcus was throwing dimes through the wind.”

That earned Mariota an invitation to a Ducks football camp in Eugene. Johnny Manziel, the No. 8-rated prep quarterback in the country according to scouting services, attended the same camp. Despite Mariota’s impressive performance at the camp, Kelly offered Manziel a scholarship on the spot. Mariota took it hard.

“I think his feelings were hurt,” says his mom. “He didn’t say a word on the flight back home.”

And you couldn’t blame him for being reminded of the three high school seasons he’d endured on the bench.

Funny thing, though. When Kelly offered Mariota a scholarship, Manziel accepted an offer from Texas A&M, where this season he’s leading the Southeastern Conference in passing yards as a redshirt freshman.

This all being said, I would love to see a National Championship game between Oregon & Texas A&M. If not this year then next. Stay tuned

 

[Specnatz]

This all being said, I would love to see a National Championship game between Oregon & Texas A&M. If not this year then next. Stay tuned

Cool next year go Stanford today.

 

[htownfan32]

Shoot me for being a SEC fan, but... I think Mariota wouldn't be as successful as Manziel is if Mariota was playing in the SEC.