The Houston Texans have finalized their nine-person draft class after a flurry of trades and discussions. Coach DeMeco Ryans expressed satisfaction with the overall selections, which included two 1,000-yard receivers from Iowa State and an All-American offensive tackle. However, the Texans failed to address their most pressing need: a guard.

Despite general manager Nick Caserio's insistence on drafting the best players over filling needs, the Texans' interior offensive line remains a concern, particularly for quarterback C.J. Stroud, who was sacked 52 times last season. After a frustrating draft where they missed out on key targets like Kelvin Banks and Tate Ratledge, the Texans may need to explore free agency or undrafted players to bolster their offensive line before the season begins.

The Houston Texans made significant strides in the 2025 NFL Draft, with experts largely praising their selections. The team focused on bolstering the offense, aiming to enhance C.J. Stroud's performance after a challenging sophomore season. Enlisting two talented receivers from Iowa State and a promising left tackle was pivotal in their strategy. The Texans secured multiple additional picks for the future by moving down in the draft, showing a long-term vision.

Among the highlights of their draft class, second-round pick Aireontae Ersery was deemed a potential starting left tackle. Receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both chosen in the second and third rounds respectively, bring size and speed to rejuvenate Houston's receiver corps. The draft grades for the Texans largely ranged from B to A, reflecting the optimism surrounding their selections.

With the 2025 NFL Draft complete, the Houston Texans have bolstered their roster with nine new rookies, adding significant talent to an already competitive team. Leading the class is Iowa State receiver Jayden Higgins, drafted at No. 34, who is expected to complement receiving standout Nico Collins.

Offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery (No. 48) aims to solidify the offensive line, while another Cyclone, Jaylin Noel (No. 79), adds depth and skill to the wide receiver group. Notably, the Texans also picked up promising young talent in defensive back Jaylin Smith and running back Woody Marks, addressing their needs strategically.

Coach DeMeco Ryans’ vision for a potent offensive strategy is clear, especially with C.J. Stroud entering a pivotal third year. The infusion of high-upside players could prove crucial for Houston’s aspirations in the coming season.

The Houston Texans made a strategic move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting USC running back Woody Marks with the 116th overall pick. By trading away their 2026 third-round pick and the 179th pick, they secured a promising addition to their backfield. With impressive collegiate stats, including 261 catches for 1,544 yards and five touchdowns, Marks is expected to complement Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon, potentially taking on the No. 2 role. Marks is recognized for his pass-catching ability and has shown significant rushing talent with 1,133 yards and nine touchdowns in his last season at USC.

Analysis from NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein highlights Marks' patient yet decisive running style, adept vision, and ability to create separation from defenders, although he may lack elite breakaway speed. His experience as a reliable pass catcher makes him a valuable asset for the Texans as they continue to build around quarterback C.J. Stroud, enhancing their offensive arsenal.

The AFC South, long viewed as the NFL's weakest division, is poised for a potential transformation. Key investments in quarterbacks have been made, highlighted by the Jaguars’ selection of Trevor Lawrence and the Titans’ recent acquisition of Cam Ward. Both the Jaguars and Titans aim to break the cycle of double-digit losses through high draft picks in recent years. Particularly noteworthy is C.J. Stroud's success with the Texans, who have already achieved back-to-back division titles in his first two seasons, raising expectations for Lawrence. With the addition of top-tier talent like Travis Hunter for Jacksonville, the division's future appears more competitive.

Despite past failures, optimism is palpable as teams look to strengthen their rosters, notably through the draft and trades. The Jaguars are bolstering their offensive line and receiving corps, hoping to maximize Lawrence’s potential. Meanwhile, the Titans and Colts are also seeking to establish stability at quarterback. The AFC South may finally be on the cusp of shedding its underdog image and asserting itself in the league.