Houston Texans: 2015 NFL Draft Recap

Oct 11, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; LSU Tigers running back Kenny Hilliard (27) scores a touchdown against the Florida Gators during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Round 7, 235th overall: RB Kenny Hilliard, LSU

General manager Rick Smith and head coach Bill O’Brien felt drawn to use their last pick in the draft on LSU bruiser Kenny Hilliard.

2014 statistics: 11 games, 90 rushing attempts, 447 rushing yards, 5.0 rushing yards per attempt, 6 rushing touchdowns

The Texans apparently decided having just one former LSU running back on the roster, Alfred Blue, just wasn’t enough.

Adding Hilliard at least ensures that the Texans will have an interesting competition for the backup running back job behind starter Arian Foster. He will be going against Blue, newly signed Chris Polk, Jonathan Grimes, and Ben Malena.

Per a draft analysis from Rob Rang of Cbsports.com:

"Powerfully-built back with good broad shoulders, thick thighs and good overall weight distribution. Surprisingly quick to the line of scrimmage given his size, showing enough burst to take advantage of holes when there and showing subtle agility and brute strength that leaves defenders struggling to take him down one on one."

Hilliard will also give the Texans another dynamic in the backfield as a pure power back that can be used in the red-zone as a runner or a blocker.

Could he also be used as the backup fullback behind second-year player Jay Prosch? And maybe long-term fits in the mold of Carolina Panthers RB/FB Mike Tolbert? This versatility could serve the young back well considering O’Brien’s fondness of this trait.

In the end, however, the last pick was used for backup competition for the short-term. He could also be a candidate for the practice squad. But if he sticks on the roster following training camp, it is possible to envision Hilliard being used in a variety of roles for the Texans in 2015.

Next: Another Solid Draft For Smith And The Texans