Top Names For Texans To Monitor At NFL Combine
INDIANAPOLIS -- The Houston Texans can exhale knowing they have their quarterback locked in for the long haul.
Every other position? That's where Houston will have to do its homework.
As the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off Thursday, speculation turns to what the Texans could do after an unheralded first season in the DeMeco Ryans era. With over two dozen free agents hitting the market, the team that won the division title is no more.
That doesn't mean the Texans can't run the AFC South behind Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud, but it starts with the continuation of building a foundation.
Who should the Texans target at No. 23? Here are several options that could be in play.
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Penn State DE Chop Robinson
Robinson is slightly undersized, but his burst, explosive first step and finesse fit what could be missing should Jonathan Greenard leave in free agency. Yes, 11.5 sacks seems underwhelming — especially as part of a defense at Penn State —but Robinson excelled in creating pressures and arguably was one of college football's better run-stoppers.
There's "boom or bust" potential with Robinson, but it's the same with any prospect. In a system asked to "Swarm," there's a chance the 6-3 end transforms into one of the league's better run defenders opposite Will Anderson Jr.
From an athletic standpoint, Robinson might be the top defensive end in the class. Now, it's about seeing if the little details will hinder his success.
Missouri DE Darius Robinson
If you haven't heard Robinson's name yet, start learning it. He'll be one of the select few on Houston's radar if a run of edge rushers begins somewhere in the teens. After an exceptional Senior Bowl, Robinson hopes to only bolster his draft stock more with a promising 40-time and decent numbers.
Last season for the Tigers, Robinson recorded 8.5 sacks. He also finished second in the SEC in pressures and third in tackles for loss with 14.5. He's known more for his physical demeanor and powerful first explosive step.
He's a borderline Day 1 option, but a positive combine could lead to him being a lock. At No. 23? It's possible.
Toldeo CB Quinyon Mitchell
Flying under the radar during the regular season, Mitchell became a staple following his performance at the Senior Bowl last month. He's met with the Texans formally already and said the visit was promising.
NFL teams no longer worry about one dominant receiver. Most have two. That means teams must prepare to either draft cornerbacks on the regular or be willing to cash out a hefty sum on the open market. Mitchell, who could end up being the top corner in the class, can do it all. Nick Caserio and Ryans should have him circled in permanent ink.
Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
A three-year starter under the greatest of all time, McKinstry needs little adjustments from life under Nick Saban to life with Ryans. He's a top-level man coverage corner with the physical presence to win against receivers when at to play in press.
McKinstry needs to work on his tackling, but he's fluid coming in and out of his breaks, and has proven to be able to hang with every type of receiver. Should Mitchell and teammate Terrion Arnold be off the board, McKinstry could be the ideal option opposite Derek Stingley Jr.
Florida State WR Keon Coleman
Somewhat a lost name over the past several weeks, Coleman could end up one of the biggest winners with a promising combine. The 6-4 Louisiana native transferred from Michigan State down to Tallahassee and didn't miss a beat as Jordan Travis' new No. 1 weapon.
Known for his physicality and ability to create separation, Coleman fits the "big-body" mold needed opposite Tank Dell and Nico Collins. While there are concerns with his speed, he's a red zone that doesn't lose often against man coverage.
If Houston wants to move Dell inside permanently, Coleman could be the ideal option.
