
McClean seeks career-saving surgery on hip problem
James McClean's career in jeopardy as he seeks hip surgery
The Houston Texans are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft to strengthen their roster after a successful playoff season. They aim to address weaknesses in their offensive line and interior defensive front to become Super Bowl contenders.
Houston Texans draft picks tracker: Updated list of 2026 selections, next pick predictions originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After their first season with an impressive playoff win on the road, the Texans are looking to make a splash in this year's Draft. They aim to strengthen their roster and address the issues that hindered their progress in the divisional round. They have certainly earned the hype.
Nobody saw 12-5 coming out of a 0-3 hole. Few had this team pegged for a nine-game winning streak or the first road playoff win in franchise history, taking down theĀ Pittsburgh Steelers, 30-6.
Now, the question is whether one more successful draft can elevate this Divisional Round team to Super Bowl contenders.
The Texans are a strong team supported by an elite defensive unit, a top-tier edge-rushing duo, and a franchise quarterback. However, they do have some weaknesses: a shaky offensive line and an inconsistent interior defensive front.Ā Fixing those two spots is the mandate tonight.
DeMeco Ryans and Nick Caserio know their agenda. Given Caserio's strong negotiation skills, it wouldn't be surprising if the Texans' draft position changes tonight. Just a year ago, the Texans were completely traded out of the first round.
The Sporting News is tracking every Texans selection in the 2026 NFL draft, from the first round to the seventh. Follow along below as Houston makes its picks.
The Houston Texans' draft picks for 2026 include selections aimed at improving their roster, particularly in the offensive line and defensive front.
The Texans finished the previous season with a 12-5 record and achieved their first road playoff win in franchise history.
The Texans need to focus on improving their shaky offensive line and inconsistent interior defensive front during the draft.
Yes, a successful draft could help the Texans address key weaknesses and position them as Super Bowl contenders.

James McClean's career in jeopardy as he seeks hip surgery
2026 NFL Draft kicks off in Pittsburgh on April 23: Here's what to expect!
Yankees defeat Red Sox 4-0 to complete the AL Wild Card Series sweep.
Cleveland Browns' 2026 Draft Picks: Key Selections and Changes
Chargers draft picks tracker: Every selection and live grades for 2025
Track every Denver Broncos draft pick and get live grades!
See every story in Sports ā including breaking news and analysis.
Texans have eight selections in the 2026 NFL Draft:
Here's a look at how the Texans' draft board could shake out,Ā based on theĀ seven-round mock draft from SN's Vinnie Iyer.
| Round | Pick | Selection | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 | Kayden McDonald | DT | Ohio State |
| 2 | 38 | Zion Young | EDGE | Missouri |
| 2 | 59 | Caleb Tiernan | OT | Northwestern |
| 3 | 69 | Sam Hecht | G/C | Kansas State |
| 4 | 106 | Deontae Lawson | LB | Alabama |
| 5 | 167 | Josh Cameron | WR | Baylor |
| 7 | 243 | Noah Thomas | WR | Georgia |
The first round of the 2026Ā NFL Draft is on Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh.
MORE 2026 NFL DRAFT: