Texans 7-round NFL mock draft: Houston lands two surprise defensive prospects on Day 2

An All-American left tackle for the Crimson Tide during his three seasons under Nick Saban and Kalen DeBoer, Proctor's arrival would likely serve as a sign that the Texans plan on addressing several needs in free agency. Right now, both center and right guard should be areas worthy of improvement, while the status of Trent Brown's potential return could at least give veteranship on the right side of the line.

As for the rest of the draft, Reid went defense, though not at the positions one would automatically assume are ideal fits. At No. 38, Houston targeted a future replacement for Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter with Missouri pass-rusher Zion Young.

"Even though the Texans already have Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr., they can build on a strength by adding Young. With 6.5 sacks last season, Young is a long-striding pass rusher who displays flashes of potential," Reid wrote. "He is also a violent-handed run defender who is able to routinely shock and shed blockers at the point of attack. He can be a rotational edge player as he works on diversifying his pass-rush plans."

Later in Round 2, Houston shored up the linebacker spot, adding fellow Missouri star Josiah Trotter.

"Trotter might be the best run-defending linebacker in this year's class," Reid wrote. "His instincts allow him to decipher run concepts, but he must become more consistent in coverage."

To close out Day 2, Reid has the Texans targeting a cornerback with Arizona State's Keith Abney. Much like Trotter and Young, the picks would be more for the future since Kamari Lassiter could play his way out of a deal.

"Abney is a perfect fit in Houston's physical defense, with an attitude and a competitive level that never shuts off," Reid wrote. "He finished last season with two interceptions."

You can view all of Reid's picks for Houston below, and his full NFL mock draft on ESPN.com.

ESPN's 7-round mock draft for Texans

• Round 1 Pick No. 28: Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor
• Round 2 Pick No. 38: Missouri DE Zion Young
• Round 2 Pick No.59: Missouri LB Josiah Trotter
• Round 3 Pick No. 69: Arizona DB Keith Abney
• Round 4 Pick No. 106: Florida OL Jake Slaughter
• Round 5 Pick 141: Texas A&M TE Nate Boerkircher
• Round 5 Pick 167: Indiana RB Kaelon Black
• Round 7 Pirkc 243: Boston College LB Quintayvious Hutchins

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans 7-round NFL mock draft: Houston lands two surprise defensive prospects on Day 2