5 Key Questions Facing Texans Ahead of NFL Draft

Houston has several key decisions to make as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:18pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football game or draft scene, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the Texans' team colors of navy blue, red, and white, conveying the multifaceted nature of the team's offseason planning.The Texans' offseason strategy is a complex puzzle, with several key decisions to make before the NFL Draft.Houston Today

The Houston Texans are just one week away from the 2026 NFL Draft, but there are still several burning questions surrounding the team that have yet to be answered. From potential draft-day trades to contract extensions for star players, the Texans have a lot of important decisions to make before the draft kicks off.

Why it matters

As the Texans look to build on their recent success and continue their climb back to the top of the AFC, the decisions they make in the upcoming draft will be crucial. How they address their roster needs and manage their salary cap will have a major impact on the team's future.

The details

The Texans' five key questions heading into the draft include: 1) Will they trade up, trade down, or stay put with the 28th overall pick? 2) How much will they pay star pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. in a contract extension? 3) Will they also extend linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair? 4) Who will compete with center Jake Andrews for the starting job? 5) How will they address their need for a third edge rusher behind Anderson and Danielle Hunter?

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just one week away.
  • The Texans have been active in making draft-day trades in recent years.

The players

Nick Caserio

The general manager of the Houston Texans, who has a history of making multiple trades during the NFL Draft.

Will Anderson Jr.

The Texans' star pass rusher who is in line for a lucrative contract extension.

Azeez Al-Shaair

The Texans' Pro Bowl linebacker who is also due for a new contract.

Jake Andrews

The Texans' starting center in 2025 who could face competition for his job.

Danielle Hunter

The Texans' other elite edge rusher who forms a dynamic duo with Will Anderson Jr.

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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...'I've heard a lot worse things in my life.'”

— Nick Caserio, Texans General Manager

What’s next

The Texans will need to make decisions on contract extensions for Will Anderson Jr. and Azeez Al-Shaair before or around the time of the NFL Draft. They will also need to determine their plans for the 28th overall pick and how to address their need for a third edge rusher.

The takeaway

The Texans have a lot of important decisions to make as they look to build on their recent success and continue their climb back to the top of the AFC. How they address their roster needs and manage their salary cap through the draft and free agency will be crucial to their long-term outlook.