Although he wasn’t the first quarterback selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans was the most productive. Not content to stop there, the Texans made possibly the most audacious draft move of the previous year when they traded up to select defensive end Will Anderson Jr. one spot later. Due to a trade-up, the Arizona Cardinals received this year’s first-round pick; however, Houston will select before their initial pick expires because they acquired another Day 1 selection in a deal with the Cleveland Browns.
And with two strategic selections that will directly affect the play of both of their first-round picks from the previous season, the Texans may capitalize on that fortunate development for even greater future success. At least based on the two-round mock NFL Draft from The 33rd Team.
1st Round, Pick No. 23 – DL Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois
According to Livesay, “Jer’Zhan Newton is undersized.” “But can win as a pass rusher and can do a lot of good things for DeMeco Ryans’ front seven.” Houston’s defensive front seven had a lot of good plays in 2023, but with multiple defensive line contracts coming up for expiration and $65.9 million in expected salary space for 2024, the team may be able to bring back certain players, but not all of them. With Newton, the Texans are able to properly negotiate, bring back a strong core, and add further young talent in the first round.
2nd Round, Pick No. 59 – WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida
Nine receivers are signed with Houston until 2024, although only Nico Collins and Tank Dell are certain to remain in their present positions on the roster and depth chart. Pearsall has the ability to make contested catches in dense traffic and a high football IQ, according to Keith Sanchez of the Locked On NFL Draft podcast.
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