The Houston Texans could use an edge rusher.
Albeit former 2020 third-round defensive end Jonathan Greenard has been steady throughout his progression in his first two NFL seasons, going from 1.0 sack his rookie season to 8.0 sacks in his second year, the Texans could still use a dominant edge rusher with the ability to take over a game.
Throughout the offseason, Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux has been bandied about as a natural fit for the Texans at No. 3 overall in the 2022 NFL draft. However, another name that is starting to work his way into discussions as arguably the best pass rusher in the draft is Georgia defensive end Travon Walker.
According to Aaron Wilson from the Pro Football Network, the Texans are performing their conscientious evaluation of Walker, having brought in the national champion for a visit. Other teams in the top-5 of the draft — Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions, New York Jets, New York Giants — are getting an up close look at Walker and how he carries himself in their facilities.
In Luke Easterling’s latest mock draft at the Draft Wire, Walker goes No. 2 overall to the Lions, who have long been mocked to take Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson since the end of the college football season.
It may be a low probability outcome, but the Texans should wait until their 13th overall pick in Round 1 if they want to nab Walker.
Houston’s defense has a top edge rusher in Greenard. What Houston lacks is a dominant defensive back. Whether the Texans decide to go with Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton or Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad Gardner, Houston needs a defensive back with playmaking ability and a penchant for tackling. Hamilton and Gardner would give Houston that ability, and ought to be their No. 3 overall targets.
Walker would be redundant to what Houston already has in Greenard, although it would beef up their pass rush considerably. Nevertheless the Texans should take care of their backend at No. 3 overall and then try to shore up their defensive line with the 13th overall selection.
