Houston Texans Draft Analysis: Grades and Impact for every player
By T.A. Mock
55. 10. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Offensive Tackle. Northern Illinois. Max Scharping. player
Grade: A
Just like the Houston Texans first round pick, Tytus Howard, they snag another ascending tackle prospect in Northern Illinois offensive tackle Max Scharping. In Scharping and Howard, the Texans have two potential bookends who are absolutely massive. Howard is 6’5″ 320+ lbs and Scharping is 6’6″ 330+ lbs.
Scharping entered NIU in 2014 as an under-recruited high school kid. He took a redshirt season then immediately stepped into the starting line up as a redshirt freshman, starting all 14 games, 10 at right tackle then the last four at right guard because of injuries. He then went on to start a possible 52 games out of 52 games in his four years at NIU.
So, he started his career at right tackle and then spent some time at right guard before spending all of his sophomore year at right tackle. In his junior season, he made the switch to left tackle and started every game there the last two years he was in school.
Scharping is big and athletic. He may not have quite the skills to stick at left tackle, especially with Howard on board. Moving back to right tackle could be the best move for his career in the NFL. He handles power well and has a great answer. He needs some technique refinement but this looks like a terrific pick for the Texans.
Max Scharping's value and impact will be felt immediately. light. Related Story
Impact: Starter at right tackle by the end of the season
Last offseason in 2018, the Houston Texans brought in Seantrel Henderson in addition to Zach Fulton and Senio Kelemete to complete the offensive line. Unfortunately, Henderson, the team’s starting right tackle, got hurt halfway through week one.
Staying healthy has proved to be a tall task for Henderson, as has consistent play when he is healthy. Henderson may get the nod to start the season but like Howard, there will be a youth infusion along the line as the season progresses whether it just be poor play or unfortunate injuries.
Henderson still has the ability that saw him flash early in his career so if he can stick it at right tackle, Scharping could potentially slide down to guard to ensure the Texans field their five best offensive linemen because Fulton and Kelemete are far from untouchable.