If C.J. Stroud plans to stay upright in 2025, the Houston Texans need an All-American guard to pair alongside Laremy Tunsil.
Yes, Houston could benefit from targeting proven talent in free agency, but given its current salary cap and long-term need for stability at guard, shoring up its trenches in the draft with perhaps a Pro Bowl-caliber option.
That’s the plan for The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, who despite having Houston in the past take Alabama’s Tyler Booker with the then-projected 19th overall pick, has the franchise securing him now at pick No. 25.
Even with one of the best passing connections in the league, the Texans want an offense that can shift to bully ball on the ground throughout the course of a game. And that has more to do with the offensive line than the running back. With his power and finishing demeanor, Booker should check a lot of boxes.
While the Texans could pivot toward the defensive line, their inability to secure a long-term left guard makes Booker’s selection intriguing. The junior comes from an offense built on a ground game emphasis under both Nick Saban and Kalen DeBoer.
Is it the sexiest pick in a draft filled with defensive studs? Not at all. Most fans are hoping with Tank Dell’s injury woes that Houston will take a pass-catcher to build up Stroud’s production.
Tyler Booker is a 1st round guard pic.twitter.com/C5ctxN8TXO
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) July 28, 2024
Don’t worry Texans fan, Brugler has the pass-catcher position covered, too. In the second round, Houston adds another SEC target to the arsenal with Ole Miss receiver Tre Harris.
In his two seasons with the Rebels, Harris totaled 114 catches for 2,015 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was on his way to a breakout season before a hamstring injury sidelined him for multiple games.
Finesse only works when physicality is evident. The Texans must fix their power up the middle if expectations are for Stroud to connect with his targets in 2025.
Booker provides that and then some. As for Harris, his route-running and frame should pair nicely opposite Nico Collins on the outside as Stroud enters Year 3.
He’s a high-floor blocker who can be an immediate asset. He can play multiple positions up front and create pancakes from all of them. He can play hyperactive at times, but he’s a bulldozer who understands his assignments.
Tyler Booker is a 1st round guard pic.twitter.com/C5ctxN8TXO
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) July 28, 2024
The Texans head to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in the divisional round. Kickoff from Arrowhead Stadium is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. CT.