Overall, the Houston Texans landed their hopeful franchise cornerstones in the 2023 NFL Draft. Of course, it begins with quarterback CJ Stroud (No. 2 overall) and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. (No. 3). That dynamic duo highlights a nine-player draft class Houston hopes will accelerate its NFL odds rebuild with new coach DeMeco Ryans. In addition to Stroud and Anderson was center Juice Struggs (second round), receiver Nathaniel “Tank” Dell (third), and defensive end Dylan Horton (fourth). Also drafted was linebacker Henry T’oTo’o (fifth), center Jarrett Patterson (sixth), receiver Xavier Hutchinson (sixth), and safety Brandon Hill (seventh round).
NFL Future Odds Post Draft 2023-24 Houston Texans
| Super Bowl Championship SBG Odds: | +18000 |
|---|---|
| AFC Championship SBG Odds: | +6600 |
| AFC South Division Championship SBG Odds: | +800 |
| 2023 Over/Under Win Total: | 6.5 |
2023 Houston Texans Post Draft Team Overview
First, CJ Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick, is the Texans’ future. It is true that Stroud is the likely Week 1 starter. But Ryans may not feel pressured to immediately throw the former Ohio State star into the fire. He has two experienced quarterbacks to lean on in Mills and Keenum. In sum, both have started a combined 90 NFL games.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Houston keep all three QBs on its initial 53-man online betting roster. Having multiple veteran quarterback voices to lean on could benefit Stroud’s development. The Texans have more wide receiver depth than they had a year ago. Despite not having a bonafide No. 1 option, it’s a group that gives Stroud a chance at success.
Last season, Robert Woods had 53 catches for 527 yards and two touchdowns. Of course, he is two years removed from a torn ACL.
Nico Collins was on pace for more than 800 receiving yards last season. However, a hamstring issue ended his 2022 campaign premature. John Metchie, a second-round pick last year, is expected to be a contributor after missing his rookie season due to Leukemia. And then Tank Dell, a third-rounder this year, is a twitchy, speedy playmaker for Stroud to grow with. Namely, Dalton Schultz is one of the better tight ends in the NFL. He is an NFL betting odds insurance blanket that Stroud can lean on. The former Dallas Cowboy has had over 50 receptions and 500 receiving yards in the last three seasons. He has a chance to be the Texans’ No. 1 receiving option.
Certainly, the Texans must be a more competitive team in 2023. Houston must emerge as a bigger player in the AFC South. Indeed, general manager Nick Caserio’s job status may depend on it. Now Houston has elite players or top-three draft picks at every premium position except wide receiver. Houston is elite at quarterback (Stroud), left tackle (Tunsil), cornerback (Stingley), and edge rusher (Anderson). Including the aggressive move for Anderson, the team traded up five times in this year’s draft for players they wanted. Every immediate need on the roster has been addressed. Between the draft picks and veterans on short-term deals.
Following 13 losses each of the last two seasons, the Texans have reason to believe they won’t be a bottom-dwelling team in the NFL in 2023. It is true that the Texans are probably still at least a year away from being challenged for the AFC South title. But winning six or seven games is a realistic goal for 2023. Even with Stroud needing time to come into his own. Houston has a bolstered run game around Pierce. And a strong wide receiver room and improved defense give Ryans something to build with.