In a new mock draft from CBS Sports’ Tom Fornelli, the Texans go in a different direction than a wide receiver with their first overall pick. Instead, Houston elects to address the offensive line by selecting former Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons.

The Houston Texans built themselves into the class of the AFC South. General manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans have put together aggressive offseason plans to turn the franchise into a playoff contender.

Here's why the Houston Texans must consider this former Michigan defensive tackle in round one of the 2025 NFL Draft.

In the first round of Draft Wire’s mock, Curt Popejoy has the Broncos picking West Virginia offensive lineman Wyatt Milum at No. 25. That’s unsurprising since Houston has been in the market for new interior offensive linemen this draft cycle.

The Houston Texans won the AFC South and made the Divisional Round for the second straight year in 2024, but the team didn’t feel as exciting as the year before. Quarterback C.J. Stroud wasn’t as effective in his second year and injuries limited the offense’s firepower.