Latest NFL Mock Draft Nails Every Need for the Texans

The Houston Texans' 2026 draft class could pan out pretty well if this were the end result.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 12:23am

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The 2026 NFL Draft sits just under a month away from kicking off in Pittsburgh, PA. And for the Houston Texans, they'll have their hands full with four selections in the first two days of the draft from rounds one through three. ESPN's latest three-round mock draft projects the Texans addressing key needs on the defensive line, offensive line, and at linebacker.

Why it matters

The Texans have already been busy improving their roster through free agency, but the draft gives them another opportunity to add talent and address lingering holes on both sides of the ball before next season. This mock draft shows how the Texans could potentially fill those needs with their four picks in the first two days.

The details

In the first round at 28th overall, the Texans are projected to select Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, a run-defending specialist who could provide a boost to the defensive interior. In the second round at 38th overall, the Texans are projected to take Texas A&M offensive lineman Chase Bisontis, a mauler in the run game who could help improve the offensive line. With the 59th overall pick, the Texans are projected to select Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday, an athletic and physical presence who could fill a need at the position. Finally, with the 69th overall pick, the Texans are projected to select Duke cornerback Chandler Rivers, who would provide depth and physicality to the secondary.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh, PA.
  • The draft is just under a month away, kicking off in late April.

The players

Kayden McDonald

A defensive tackle from Ohio State who is one of the top players at his position in this year's draft class, known for his sturdy frame, power, and ability to defend the run.

Chase Bisontis

An offensive lineman from Texas A&M who is a mauler in the run game, which could help improve the Texans' rushing attack.

Jake Golday

A linebacker from Cincinnati who is an athletic and physical presence, and could fill a need at the position for the Texans.

Chandler Rivers

A cornerback from Duke who is known for his fast route recognition and physicality, and could provide depth to the Texans' secondary.

Nick Caserio

The general manager of the Houston Texans, who will be responsible for making the team's selections in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“Houston could use more youth at defensive tackle, and McDonald was the best at his position against the run in 2025. His sturdy frame and power make him a tough player to move around.”

— Field Yates, ESPN Analyst

“The Texans look set at tackle after adding Braden Smith but need to get better on the inside. Bisontis is a mauler in the run game.”

— Matt Miller, ESPN Analyst

“Golday checks a lot of the Texans' boxes, as he's a highly athletic, physical presence with a lot of upside once he settles into a permanent spot.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Analyst

“I love Rivers' fast route recognition and surprising physicality for a 185-pound player. The Texans' secondary is stacked, but Rivers would provide depth both inside and outside.”

— Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April, where the Texans will have the opportunity to make their selections and continue building their roster for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Texans have been active in free agency, but the draft provides another chance to address key needs on both sides of the ball. This mock draft shows how they could potentially fill those needs with their four picks in the first two days, strengthening their defensive line, offensive line, linebacker corps, and secondary.