Texans Offseason Summary Following the first wave of 2026 free agency, the Houston Texans' primary draft needs are Defensive Tackle, Interior Offensive Line, and Linebacker. While General Manager Nick Caserio revamped the offensive line by signing veterans Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller, the departure of several defensive interior starters has made Defensive Tackle the team's most pressing hole.
The Texans entered the 2026 offseason with significant holes along both the offensive and defensive lines. Caserio aggressively addressed the Offensive Line by trading away Tytus Howard and bringing in Smith, Teller, and Evan Brown. On defense, the team fortified its secondary with safety Reed Blankenship and added rotational pass rushers. However, the interior defensive line remains a major concern after losing three key players at the position in free agency.
Franchise Needs
IDL
IOL
LB
RB
Free Agent Losses
OT Tytus Howard (Trade), RB Joe Mixon (Released), S Jimmie Ward (Released), DT Mario Edwards (Released), P Tommy TownsendFree Agent Gains
OT Braden Smith, OG Wyatt Teller, S Reed Blankenship, RB David Montgomery (Trade), OG Evan Brown, TE Foster Moreau, DE Logan HallDraft Capital Overview
- Pick 28 (Round 1)
- Pick 38 (Round 2) via WSH
- Pick 59 (Round 2)
- Pick 69 (Round 3) via NYG
- Pick 106 (Round 4) via WSH
- Pick 167 (Round 5)
- Pick 243 (Round 7) via SFF
HOU Mock Draft Picks
Caleb Banks
Houston has continued reinforcing the trenches this month, adding pieces like Dominique Robinson on defense while also making offensive-line investments such as Braden Smith. Banks fits because the Texans are clearly still building structural depth rather than assuming the front is finished. His size and ability to occupy space would give the defense another interior piece capable of preserving run-down stability.
Chase Bisontis
Interior offensive line reinforcement remains part of Houston’s long-term protection calculus. Bisontis’ strength and positional flexibility fit an offense that continues prioritizing structural pass-blocking integrity. He profiles as a plug-and-play interior presence capable of earning meaningful early snaps.
Jake Golday
Defensive communication consistency remains essential to Houston’s progression. Golday’s leadership traits and spatial awareness provide second-level organizational stability. He profiles as a developmental linebacker capable of anchoring defensive structure.
Sam Hecht
Protection efficiency continues to influence Houston’s offensive trajectory. Hecht’s composure in pass sets and positional flexibility introduce stabilizing developmental depth. He profiles as a center-guard hybrid with structural value.