Five Burning Questions for the Texans Heading Into NFL Draft

Houston has a busy offseason ahead as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:12pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players, draft prospects, and team logos, conveying the multifaceted challenges facing the Texans this offseason.The Texans' offseason plans are a complex puzzle, with key decisions on the draft, contracts, and roster needs to navigate.Houston Today

The Houston Texans are facing several key questions as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, including whether they will trade out of the first round again, how they will handle contract extensions for star players like Will Anderson Jr. and Azeez Al-Shaair, and how they will address needs on the offensive line and at edge rusher.

Why it matters

The Texans are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and continue their rebuild under GM Nick Caserio. Answering these key questions will be crucial as they look to improve the roster through the draft and free agency.

The details

The Texans have a history of making draft-day trades under Caserio, trading out of the first round in each of the last two drafts. They could do so again this year, or potentially make an aggressive move up the board. The team also has contract extensions to work out for star players like Anderson and Al-Shaair, with the former expected to command a deal worth around $50 million per year. On the roster, the Texans need to address the center position and find a third edge rusher to complement Anderson and Danielle Hunter.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just one week away.
  • The Texans will need to work out an extension for Will Anderson Jr. before or around draft time.

The players

Nick Caserio

The general manager of the Houston Texans, who has made at least three trades in each of his drafts with the team so far.

Will Anderson Jr.

The Texans' star edge rusher, who is expected to command a contract worth around $50 million per year.

Azeez Al-Shaair

The Texans' Pro Bowl linebacker, who is due for a contract extension after a breakout 2025 season.

Jake Andrews

The Texans' current starting center, who the team seems to like but could bring in competition for the role.

Denico Autry

The veteran edge rusher who held down the Texans' third edge spot in 2025 but is now gone, leaving a hole to fill.

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What they’re saying

“If we pick, we pick. If we don't, we don't... If we move out of the first round, then I'll probably get some choice words...”

— Nick Caserio, Texans GM

What’s next

The Texans will need to work out a contract extension for Will Anderson Jr. before or around the draft, as he is expected to command a deal worth around $50 million per year.

The takeaway

The Texans have a busy offseason ahead as they look to build on their promising 2025 season. Answering key questions around the draft, contract extensions, and roster needs will be crucial as they continue their rebuild under GM Nick Caserio.