The Houston Texans have been one of the NFL's most intriguing teams during this offseason, trying to find a way to emerge among the league's elite squads after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
Sure, this is an organization that won the AFC South, yet obvious roster holes made it clear that not even C.J. Stroud's young promise can solve. With the 2025 NFL Draft in just a few short weeks, the Texans have an opportunity to land another game-changing talent to push the roster to new heights.
That said, with just the 25th pick in the first round, options could be slim. As a result, one new projected trade sees Houston trading up into the top 10 in order to land one of the best players available.
Texans Trade Up to No. 8 in Blockbuster Projected Trade Before NFL Draft
This trade would see Houston moving up to No. 8, acquiring the Carolina Panthers' first-round selection in a swap on top of one of the Texans' two third-rounders and a 2026 first-rounder. It's a significant haul, though would let Houston target someone like WR Tetairoa McMillan or LB Jalon Walker.
Even if those two players wouldn't be the potential targets, Houston's options would open up significantly. This is a team that feels just a piece or two away from competing for a Super Bowl, and the front office has done an excellent job in recent years of identifying first-round picks. From Stroud to Will Anderson and more, the foundation of this roster has been built in the draft and this trade could give the organization that final playmaker it needs.
Regardless, the Texans are in great shape moving forward. Competing in a relatively weak AFC South helps matters, and Houston should expect to win the division consistently for years to come as long as Stroud is under center.
In order to take down the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens of the world though, something needs to change. By swinging for the fences with this deal, the Texans just might be able to elevate their ceiling in 2025 and beyond.