Houston Texans 3-Round Mock Draft: Reinforcing the Trenches

This is an in depth article of a 3 round mock draft for the Houston Texans. These picks are from a mock draft in which I controlled all 32 teams. I drafted according to what I believe are the team’s positional needs, how the prospects fit their scheme, and how the players are valued according to my own big board. Since it is early in the offseason, I did no trades. There will be a separate article published for each NFL team from this same mock draft.

Round 1, Pick 25: DT Derrick Harmon, Oregon

With the 25th overall pick, the Texans address their most glaring defensive weakness by selecting Derrick Harmon, the dominant defensive tackle out of Oregon. The Texans’ interior defensive line has been a vulnerability, often struggling to stop the run and collapse the pocket against elite offenses. Harmon is the perfect solution to this problem. At 6’5, 310 pounds, he possesses a rare blend of size, power, and explosiveness making him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen.

Harmon’s incredible strength and ability to shed blockers make him an anchor in the middle. His power allows him to absorb double teams while still maintaining leverage to disrupt plays. With 5 sacks in 2024, Harmon has also demonstrated an ability to generate interior pressure on the quarterback consistently, an invaluable trait for a modern defensive tackle. His presence in the middle forces offensive lines to divert extra attention, creating one on one opportunities for edge rushers like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter to dominate.

Adding Harmon is a game changer for Houston’s defense, as he not only improves run stopping efficiency but also enhances the team’s ability to generate pressure without heavy blitzing. Demeco Ryans will have a versatile weapon who can be effective in any formation, making Harmon an instant impact player for the Texans.

Round 2, Pick 57: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia

In the second round, the Texans prioritize offensive line stability by selecting Tate Ratledge, a blue-chip interior offensive lineman out of Georgia. At 6’6, 320 pounds, Ratledge is a mauler in the trenches who possesses both the power and technical refinement necessary to thrive at the next level.

One of Ratledge’s standout traits is his football IQ. He quickly diagnoses blitzes and stunts, ensuring that C.J. Stroud remains protected in the pocket. He plays with violent hands and a strong anchor, making him nearly impossible to move in pass protection. His physicality strongly translates in the run game, where he excels at driving defenders off the ball to create rushing lanes that would incredibly assist Houston’s backfield.

Ratledge’s toughness and mentality align perfectly with the physical identity that the Texans want to establish on offense. His ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line gives Houston flexibility and valuable depth in the trenches. Securing Ratledge helps to ensure CJ Stroud is protected as he looks for a somewhat bounceback season in 2025.

Round 3, Pick 89: LB Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss

With their third round selection, the Texans continue to bolster their defense by selecting Chris Paul Jr. He is a high energy linebacker out of Ole Miss. While Houston has promising young linebackers on the roster, they still need a leader in the middle of the field. Chris fits that as someone who can diagnose plays quickly and attack downhill with authority. Paul comes in as an instinctive, high-IQ linebacker with outstanding physical tools that Houston will be thrilled to add as the best overall player here at 89.

Paul’s explosiveness and reaction time make him an exceptional run defender. He reads offensive plays well, allowing him to make early contact and limit big gains. Playing alongside Henry To’oTo’o and Christian Harris in a 4-3 defense is a fantastic fit for Paul. His biggest asset is his downhill explosiveness, which enables him to shoot gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield.

Whether blitzing or dropping into coverage he showcases versatility, giving the Texans a linebacker who can contribute immediately. Paul’s ability to be the signal-caller on defense ensures that Houston has a strong, disciplined leader patrolling the second level of their young front 7.