Texans Busy in Free Agency, Look to Draft Reinforcements

Houston Texans address needs on both sides of the ball in 3-round mock draft

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:52pm

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The Houston Texans have been active in free agency, signing multiple starters on offense and defense. With their roster more refined, the Texans can now focus on the NFL Draft to add depth and competition at key positions. This 3-round mock draft explores how the Texans could attack the draft to continue improving the team for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Texans' free agency moves have changed their draft needs, allowing them flexibility to target the best available players rather than being locked into specific positions. Addressing both sides of the ball in the draft will be crucial for the Texans to build a well-rounded roster capable of competing in the AFC South.

The details

In the first round, the Texans could target Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik McDonald to bolster their interior defensive line. In the second round, the team may look to add offensive line depth by selecting guard Emmanuel Pregnon from Penn State. For their third-round pick, the Texans could add running back depth with Notre Dame's Jadarian Price, who the team reportedly had a "really good" meeting with at the combine. The Texans may also look to the center position in the third round, potentially drafting Auburn's Connor Lew to compete for the starting job or provide valuable depth.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just over a month away.
  • The Texans have been active in free agency throughout the offseason.

The players

Tyleik McDonald

A versatile defensive tackle prospect from Ohio State, graded as one of the best interior run defenders in college football in 2025.

Emmanuel Pregnon

A 6-foot-5, 318-pound guard from Penn State with over 750 snaps of experience at left guard over the last three seasons.

Jadarian Price

A running back from Notre Dame who could provide a complementary change-of-pace option in the Texans' backfield.

Connor Lew

A 20-year-old center prospect from Auburn who is ranked as the top center in the 2026 NFL Draft class by Pro Football Focus.

David Montgomery

A running back acquired by the Texans in a trade this offseason, expected to be a lead back in their backfield.

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What they’re saying

“Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price says he's met with the #Texans. Said it was one of the better interviews he had yesterday.”

— Jadarian Price, Notre Dame Running Back

What’s next

The Texans will continue to evaluate prospects and finalize their draft board ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which is just over a month away.

The takeaway

The Texans have been proactive in free agency, addressing needs on both sides of the ball. This 3-round mock draft shows how the team can continue to build a well-rounded roster through the draft, adding depth and competition at key positions to compete in the AFC South in 2026.