Texans Eye Key Draft Picks Ahead of NFL Combine

HOUSTON, Texas — As the Houston Texans prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, their strategy hinges on key decisions made during free agency. With the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine approaching, the Texans are eyeing either an offensive lineman or a No. 3 receiver to enhance their roster.

The Texans hope to secure either an offensive lineman or a quality receiver over the next few weeks. Should they resolve one of these needs via free agency, they can focus on the remaining position when the draft arrives. Currently, the Texans are locked into considering a wide receiver or an interior offensive lineman with their No. 25 overall pick.

If they opt for a pass-catcher, prospects such as Matthew Golden from Texas and Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State are projected to be strong candidates for selection on draft night. NFL analysts anticipate Egbuka will create a notable reunion with quarterback C.J. Stroud, who previously played alongside him at Ohio State. Football analyst Kyle Crabbs described Egbuka as “an underneath, chain-moving option” suitable for offenses that emphasize short passes.

In Egbuka’s final season at Ohio State, he secured 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his potential. Despite limited action in the 2023 season due to injuries, Egbuka opted to return for his senior year, where he again recorded impressive stats, serving as the secondary option in the offense.

John Crumpler of Texans Wire highlighted Egbuka’s fit under the new offensive coordinator Nick Caley, describing the 6-foot receiver as a determined blocker. While he may struggle in physical matchups, Egbuka embodies the qualities the Texans need to elevate their offensive performance in 2025.

Alternatively, if the Texans choose to improve their offensive line, numerous analysts agree it would be a prudent move given the team’s current structure. With only six draft picks to navigate, a trade back to acquire additional capital may also be on the table, providing the opportunity to gather two players grouped within the same round.

The NFL Scouting Combine will further inform the Texans’ draft choices, allowing them to assess players’ performances in drills and interviews, all while refining their draft strategy ahead of the April 24 event. As analysts look ahead, Houston’s pursuit of both Egbuka and Golden is a storyline to watch in the coming weeks, creating intrigue around their first-round draft position.