Houston Texans: 2018 draft report card looks sharp despite late start
By T.A. Mock
Final draft grade: B+
The Houston Texans started off behind the eight ball for the 2018 draft. However, this was for good reason as the team snagged their franchise quarterback last year.
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The team started off strong in the third round snagging three guys they’re hopefully can start contributing early. Reid has the best shot to get on the field early and often. The jury is still out on Rankin for me. He’s a name I’ll be watching closely this summer. Lastly, I like Akins potential despite having an initial “wait…who?” reaction.
Coutee may end up being the best player from the 2018 draft when it is all said and done. His catching ability and ability after the catch project very well. Having Welker on staff to coach him will be invaluable.
The rest of the draft consisted of trying to get some solid, athletic depth. Of the final four guys, Ejiofor definitely has the most potential to contribute early. He immediately slots in as the fourth pass rusher behind Watt, Clowney, and Mercilus.
All in all, this was a very solid first draft for Gaine. He executed his plan to get bigger, stronger, and faster. I am excited to see what these guys can do in deep steel blue. They’ll be hitting the field for the first time in just a couple of weeks at rookie camp.