Jan 5, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) reacts to the crowd between plays during the first quarter of the AFC Wild Card playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Texans
Stacked Against the Pick:
The Texans need help at inside linebacker and have made that a priority in the draft. With the loss of Brian Cushing during the 2012 season, the Texans defense took a noticeable step back even with the unstoppable JJ Watt. The Texans will be looking to add more depth behind Cushing as well as a possible starter to play alongside him.
The Perfect Storm:
The Houston Texans are another team who play the 3-4 defense, and a player like Travis Long could provide depth at both defensive end and outside linebacker. If the Texans draft goes to plan or perhaps players they were shooting for fell to them early, Long might have a chance. There is a possibility that they look to add depth late in the draft. And a player like Travis would fit well with Houston.
Likelihood of Getting Drafted by the Houston Texans:
Houston is looking to shore up a playoff team by adding talent and depth at key positions. The loss of Cushing last season opened their eyes to adding depth at the inside linebacker position in 2013.
F (1st through 4th rounds) The Texans should focus on inside linebacker and wide receiver early in the draft.
C- (5th through 7th rounds) This grade is more for hope than need. The Texans would be a great fit for Travis Long, I just don’t see it happening.