The Houston Texans addressed key roster needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting players like Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge and Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. Overall, their draft class received solid grades, indicating a promising future.
Key points
Texans addressed roster needs in the 2026 NFL Draft
Keylan Rutledge was drafted in the first round
Kayden McDonald was considered a first-round talent
Marlin Klein was seen as a reach but has potential
Overall, the Texans received solid grades for their draft
Houston Texans
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 31:: Kayden McDonald #98 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half of the College Football Playoff Quarter Final Game at AT&T Stadium on December 31, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 31:: Kayden McDonald #98 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half of the College Football Playoff Quarter Final Game at AT&T Stadium on December 31, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Houston Texans did not have many holes on their roster entering the 2026 NFL Draft, but there were a few spots that needed work, and they addressed those needs early.
Regardless of all the additions that were made along the offensive line throughout free agency, it was clear that there was at least one more spot that needed to be filled, and they took care of that with their first pick, drafting Rutledge.
Rutledge is someone who is going to bring a fierce mentality each and every play, and someone who is going to get better and better with time under offensive line coach, Cole Popovich.
As of now, it feels like he could very well be their starting center week one.
ROUND TWO: Ohio State Defensive Tackle Kayden McDonald (A+)
After offensive line, it was clear that the second biggest need was at defensive tackle, and this pick could not make more sense. McDonald is someone who was viewed as a first-round talent, that fell a bit, and the Texans were able to take advantage.
McDonald is a perfect fit for DeMeco Ryansā defense, and it is going to be scary to see him play with Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr.
Q&A
What were the Houston Texans' top draft picks in 2026?
The Texans' top draft picks included Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge and Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald.
How did the Texans grade their 2026 draft class?
The Texans received solid grades for their draft class, with key picks like McDonald earning an A+ and Rutledge an A-.
What positions did the Texans focus on during the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Texans focused on strengthening their offensive line and defensive tackle positions during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Who is Kayden McDonald and why is he significant for the Texans?
Kayden McDonald is a defensive tackle from Ohio State, viewed as a first-round talent, and is expected to fit well into the Texans' defensive scheme.
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ROUND TWO: Michigan Tight End Marlin Klein (C+)
The Texans did not need a starting tight end, because they already have that in Dalton Schultz, but they needed help after him, and they grabbed someone that they feel can develop, and eventually contribute in a big way.
This pick was seen by most as a reach, but they clearly saw something in him, and it is not hard to see why. Klein is an athletic freak, and is a willing blocker. He is originally from Germany, but moved here at 15 to play football. Did not speak any English whatsoever.
It may take time for him to develop into a starter, but it would not be a surprise to see him make some noise as a rookie.
ROUND FOUR: Oklahoma Guard Febechi Nwaiwu (B-)
You can never have too much depth on the offensive line, and Nwaiwu brings that with his experience at Oklahoma. He is someone that brings a very professional attitude, and will give his all on the field.
Probably will not start as a rookie, but there is a path for the future.
ROUND FOUR: Clemson Linebacker Wade Woodaz (C+)
Woodaz is someone that will be able to come in and contribute on special teams immediately, and potentially carve out a role as a depth linebacker.
ROUND FIVE: USC Defensive Back Kamari Ramsey (A-)
Ramsey may end up being one of the biggest steals of the draft. He has positional versatility, along with good anticipation. Sitting behind the Texans current secondary will be great for his long-term development.
ROUND SIX: Boston College Wide Receiver Lewis Bond (B+)
Bond was extremely consistent throughout his final three years in college, catching 213 passes, for 2,385 yards and eleven touchdowns. He is reliable catching the football, but has to elevate his game in order to become a consistent role player.
ROUND SEVEN: Indiana Linebacker Aiden Fisher (B)
Fisher brings a championship mentality to Houston, and will be great in the special teams department. Would not be surprised to see him contribute early.
Overall, the Texans had a very solid draft. They went against the general consensus, as far as the rest of the league, but they got the players that they wanted, and only time will tell how it all plays out.