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.

Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft brought unexpected surprises, notably the unexpected slide of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who fell behind three others in the QB rankings. His tumble prompted questions about his potential progression in the league, especially as teams look to bolster their rosters. The New Orleans Saints struck gold with Tyler Shough, a QB whose past injuries raised eyebrows, but now looks to seize a starting role amidst Derek Carr's uncertain health. The Chicago Bears also made headlines by addressing needs with selections like tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III, showcasing their commitment to supporting quarterback Caleb Williams.

Other notable selections included Drake Maye for the Patriots, where the addition of running back TreVeyon Henderson and wide receiver Kyle Williams aims to energize their offense. Meanwhile, the Houston Texans are reshaping their receiving core with Iowa State products Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel to assist C.J. Stroud. Jerry Jones, under scrutiny for earlier draft choices, redeemed himself by acquiring edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku and cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. Some teams, like the Cleveland Browns, faced criticism for questionable picks, but the draft's overall excitement continues to make waves in fantasy football discussions.

Shedeur Sanders continues to generate headlines at the NFL Draft, but for all the wrong reasons. Despite high expectations, he shockingly went undrafted after a disappointing Day 2 where QB-needy teams passed on him multiple times. In contrast, CJ Stroud emerged as a clear winner, as the Texans provided him with new offensive weapons including receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, along with a much-needed left tackle in Aireontae Ersery. Meanwhile, the Bears under new coach Ben Johnson began to form a formidable offense by drafting playmakers like Luther Burden III and solidifying their offensive line.

Day 2 also saw an unprecedented run on tight ends, with five selected among the first 50 picks, tying a draft record. The Ravens benefited by snagging two players ranked in the top 20 of the 2025 draft prospects, enhancing their defense after a tough previous season. However, the performance of the Ohio State Buckeyes was noteworthy, producing multiple early-round picks, a testament to their college program's strength. While some teams thrived, others, like the Steelers and Browns, faced scrutiny for their QB decisions, leaving many questions heading into the final rounds of the draft.

The Houston Texans have made a significant addition to their offense by selecting wide receiver Jayden Higgins in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Initially, it was unexpected, especially after trading back with the New York Giants. However, Higgins, a standout from Iowa State, showcased impressive stats in his collegiate career, with 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns in the 2023-2024 season alone. This selection aims to bolster quarterback C.J. Stroud's arsenal, providing a fresh playmaker option and potentially enhancing the Texans' offensive strategy.