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The NFL draft is one of the most exciting times of the year for NFL fans.
The 2025 edition of the event is now just weeks away, and the Houston Texans will be an interesting team to watch once the event kicks off.
After winning the AFC South and reaching the playoffs in 2024, the Texans are currently slated to have the No. 25 pick. There are several directions the team could go with this pick, including offensive line, wide receiver, or perhaps defensive line.
Now, let's identify the top three best fits for the team in the first round.
Josh Simmons, OL, Ohio State
Arguably the most common mock draft pick for the Texans has been Ohio State offensive lineman Josh Simmons.
The pick makes sense as the Texans desperately need to improve their offensive line. The unit was bad during the 2024 season, and appears even worse on paper after trading star left tackle Laremy Tunsil this offseason.
The team did sign Cam Robinson to a substantial one-year deal this offseason, and the expectation is that the veteran will start at left tackle. However, Simmons could start at one of the guard spots in 2025 before taking over the left tackle spot in 2026.
Simmons only played in six games in 2024 due to injury, but his play was impressive in that sample. Simmons earned a 74.4 Pro Football Focus grade and is strong enough and has the technique to hold his own against bigger pass rushers.
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Sticking with Ohio State products, the Texans could also select wide receiver Emeka Egbuka.
While offensive line is a huge need, the wide receiver position appears to be as well. Tank Dell suffered a serious injury in 2024 and it's unknown when the receiver will return. The only additions this offseason were Christian Kirk, Justin Watson, and Braxton Berrios, so more reinforcements may be needed.
In 2024, Egbuka caught 81 passes for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns. The speedy receiver helped the Buckeyes win the national title and boast a top-15 scoring offense in the country.
In Houston, Egbuka would join Nico Collins and Christian Kirk in the starting lineup.
Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas
Going back to the offensive line well, the Texans could stay in-state and take Texas offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr.
Banks played in 15 games for Texas in 2024 at left tackle and earned an elite 86.2 Pro Football Focus grade. While spending his time at left tackle in college, most scouts believe the lineman could excel at either guard or tackle at the next level.
In Houston, similarly to Simmons, Banks could begin his career at guard before eventually taking over at left tackle. The Texans need help at tackle and guard, which could make Banks a perfect addition.
