The Houston Texans took some heat on draft night for their top two picks. CJ Stroud wasn’t a consensus second pick for many analysts and many were skeptical. Then, when the team traded premium draft capital for Will Anderson Jr., analysts again questioned the decision. At the midseason point, one NFL analyst thinks the Texans made the right decision.
Houston Texans CJ Stroud & Will Anderson Jr. Receive High Marks
Ryan Fowler of Bleacher Report did midseason grades for every first-round pick. Both Stroud and Anderson received grades in the “A” range. Stroud is by far the frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Stroud isn’t just having a great rookie season but a great season for a quarterback period. He is third in the league in passing yards per game and has only thrown one interception.
Anderson has been the anchor of the DeMeco Ryans defense. He only has two sacks but according to Pro Football Focus is second amongst rookie edge rushers in pressures. Offenses are clearly having to focus on Anderson in game planning. These players have the team in position for a possible wild card spot in the AFC.
Can The Texans Make The Playoffs?
Being in the AFC South helps the Texans. Games against the Colts and Titans are easier games to play. Others in the AFC have gauntlets to go through. Even if Houston doesn’t make the playoffs, the season is still a huge success. They are out of the league’s cellar. The draft pick they owe to the Arizona Cardinals will not be a top-five pick like many thought it would be at the beginning of the season.
The Houston Texans have to feel good about how this season has gone. For the first time in a long time, there is hope in the organization.
