The Houston Texans made another quick exit from the playoffs, and they head into the offseason with a lot of questions on offense. C.J. Stroud has yet to recapture the magic of his rookie season, playing inconsistent football behind a porous offensive line. Protection and weapons for Stroud are a priority this offseason.

Houston Texans’ Needs

Offensive Line

The Texans’ offensive line ranked in the bottom third of the league in 2025. They started a rookie (Aireontae Ersery) at one offensive tackle spot, while a pair of former promising rookies, Juice Scruggs and Jarrett Patterson, both guard/center combos, never improved as most thought they would.

Running Back

Joe Mixon could be a cap casualty after missing the entire season. Nick Chubb signed a one-year deal before the season and is near the end of his rope. Another back to pair with Woody Marks is needed.

Defensive Line

The Texans have just three players on the depth chart at defensive tackle, and Sheldon Rankins is slated for free agency.

MOCK DRAFT

ROUND 1: Olaivavega Ioane/G/Penn State

In recent years, the Texans made some head-scratching decisions on the offensive line, and it has cost them. Ioane brings talent to a unit that needs to be settled on the interior.

ROUND 2: Jadarian Price/RB/Notre Dame

Price is a lot like Woody Marks, but faster. He’s a creative ball carrier who excels at catching the ball out of the backfield. The two will offer Houston a nice rotational tandem.

ROUND 2: Zane Durant/DT/Penn State

Durant fell short of scouts’ expectations this season, yet he’s an explosive interior tackle who has the size and style of a three-technique lineman. His intensity is infectious.

ROUND 3: Lee Hunter/DT/Texas Tech

After transferring to Texas Tech from Central Florida, Hunter took his game to the next level. He’s a wide-bodied interior lineman who moves incredibly well and is ready for this year’s draft. He would be a great pairing with Durant.