NFL Draft 2017 Round 4: Houston Texans Select DT Carlos Watkins
With the 142nd pick in Round 4 of the 2017 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans select…
With the 142nd pick in Round 4 of the 2017 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans select…
This 6’3,” 309-pound tackle is going to be exciting to watch when he gets his opportunity on our defensive line.
We’re already loaded in that department and we’re boasting having the reigning No. 1 defense and he’ll be of nice add to the line.
He’ll have the best of the best in terms of our coaching staff in Romeo Crennel, Mike Vrabel and Anthony Weaver getting this guy to the potential that he can reach.
From what I’ve seen out of him, it won’t be long as he has a heck of a motor and can overpower his assignments quite well.
But you don’t have to take my word for it, here’s what the experts had to say:
SportsTalk 790’s Jayson Braddock:
"“Watkins had 50 tackles with 13.5 for a loss, 10.5 sacks and four passes broken up in 2016. He was superb against Auburn in the season opener and was a very steady disruptive presence for Clemson to close out the season. Watkins dominated Ohio State in the first round of the playoffs and also played well against Alabama in the National Championship. After the season, Watkins continued his strong play with a good week at the Senior Bowl.”"
Weaknesses highlighted from NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:
"“Top-heavy with excess weight around midsection topping leaner lower body. Struggled to grow roots and stand up for himself against Alabama’s powerful double teams. Pad level rises as snap progresses. Powerful guards can get under his pads and turn him out of the gap. Quality of play diminishes rapidly when fatigued.”"
And here’s some tape of Watkins in action in the playoff semifinals against Ohio State. He looked excellent out there and look closely at 6:45 where he had a ferocious sack on J.T. Barrett:
So with all things considered, there’s definitely a spot for Watkins on this team with all the tools that he has to do battle and it’s going to be exciting to see him on board.
With the add of Watkins, the Texans know have four Clemson alumni on the roster along with DeAndre Hopkins, Deshaun Watson and D.J. Reader.
Next: NFL Draft Round 4: Texans Select OT Julie'n Davenport
Reader should be the presumptive starter at nose tackle but I believe the Texans are bringing in Watkins as additional insurance because those guys can be moved around a bit on the line.
Watkins had 50 tackles (20 assisted) along with 12.5 tackles-for-loss, 10.5 sacks, four passes defended and one fumble recovery through 15 games for the Tigers in 2016.
Go Texans.