The Houston Texans finally have their coach.
After a nearly month-long coaching search following the firing of David Culley after the rookie coach’s only season, the Texans have settled on promoting defensive coordinator and associate head coach Lovie Smith to the big job.
With Smith now in command of the Texans, would it affect what direction Houston goes with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft?
According to Luke Easterling of the Draft Wire, Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux is the type of pick that Smith will need in order to elevate the defense with a formidable pass rush.
If Lovie Smith’s defense is going to succeed, the Texans are going to have to get consistent pressure with their defensive front. Landing Thibodeaux at the No. 3 pick could end up being a huge steal, and a great way for Smith to start his tenure as Houston’s head coach.
Alabama tackle Evan Neal goes No. 1 overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the mock draft with Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson going the very next selection to the Detroit Lions.
Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton, who has been linked to the Texans in some mock drafts, goes No. 5 overall to the New York Giants.
In the Draft Wire’s latest mock, Washington cornerback Trent McDuffie goes to Houston in Round 2. The Texans use their twin third-round picks on Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker and Kentucky receiver Wan’Dale Robinson.
