The Houston Texans tackled some needs in the NFL draft despite not having a first-round pick this year.
Last year, they picked quarterback C.J. Stroud second overall and traded up for defensive end Will Anderson Jr. right after. This time, their first pick was at No. 42 in the second round.
After boosting their offense by trading for star receiver Stefon Diggs and running back Joe Mixon, the Texans focused on improving their secondary with their early draft picks.
They chose Georgia cornerback Kamari Lassiter at No. 42 and added USC safety Calen Bullock in the third round at No. 78. Both could start right away, especially to strengthen the cornerback position opposite Derek Stingley Jr. and the free safety role alongside strong safety Jalen Pitre.
These additions should enhance a defense that ranked 23rd in the NFL last season, allowing 234.1 passing yards per game.
General manager Nick Caserio praised Lassiter’s versatility and toughness, highlighting his experience, winning two national championships with the Bulldogs.
“Lassiter has played both on the perimeter and inside, showing a linebacker-like mentality. He tackles well and is physical,” Caserio said.
Lassiter started 29 games over his last two seasons at Georgia, breaking up eight passes and making 3½ tackles for losses last season. Despite concerns about his speed after running an unofficial 4.60 40-yard dash at Georgia’s pro day, Caserio emphasized that Lassiter’s speed wasn’t a major worry.
“While his speed might raise some questions when you watch him play in the SEC, you don’t walk away with those concerns,” Caserio added.
