Houston Texans Still Need To Address Wide Receiver Early In The Draft
By Travis Oquin
Nov 1, 2014; Pullman, WA, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Nelson Agholor (15) returns a punt against the Washington State Cougars during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Nelson Agholor (2nd round) 6’0”, 198 – USC
It must be noted that most of the receivers that the Texans have spoken to and even brought in for private workouts have been primarily slot type receivers and in many case guys that are also kick and/or punt returners.
Nelson Agholor fits both of these categories. Agholor is an outstanding kick returner, very fluid, extremely quick and elusive. Taking Agholor in the 2nd round takes away the need to draft a returner as well later in the draft.
September 27, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Nelson Agholor (15) runs the ball against the Oregon State Beavers during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Agholor is also viewed as a slot receiver and though some feel he has first round ability, that fact alone could force him deeper into the 2nd round than some may predict, because with NFL general Mmanagers it’s all about value of the player, the position and team fit.
But for Bill O’Brien and his New England roots, he clearly values the slot receiver with New England’s longtime tradition of Wes Welker, Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman. But again, having Cecil Shorts with the positional flexibility to play inside or outside gives the Texans the flexibility to go either direction in the draft in teams of looking specifically as to who will play in 2015.
Agholor is an excellent route runner with quick feet and is a natural hands catcher. In addition, Agholor excels at run after the catch and is a dynamic threat with the ball in his hands, something the Texans have needed for years.
Here is Agholor against California where he caught 16 passes for 216 yards and 2 touchdowns .
Agholor, although considered by some to be quicker than fast, ran a 4.42 40-yard dash at the combine and should not have trouble getting deep or working underneath. The Texans will likely be looking at him in the 2nd round, although there is some concern if he will last all the way to 51.
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