Texans Two-Step: Stroud And Anderson Lead Hopeful Franchise -

With two high first-round draft picks, the Houston Texans attempted to build foundations on both side of the ball. What does that look like?

On draft night, the Houston Texans rolled the dice and began to set in motion, the plan to construct a young nucleus. Granted, everyone knew Houston would draft high in the first round. Yet, no one expected the Texans to double, sending draft capital, in exchange for the third overall pick. Now, we get to start to see what the long game will eventually evolve into.

Proud Of Stroud?

With Bryce Young enjoying Bojangles in Charlotte, the Texans needed a quarterback. C.J. Stroud needed to be the pick. While pundits and cranky analysts bemoan Young’s height, they immediately praise Stroud’s makeup. If you watched him shred Georgia in the playoffs, you see the intangible that Houston probably saw. During that game, UGA battered Stroud, sending all the exotic rush packages his way. However, Stroud stared down the barrel and keep throwing. At the NFL level, Stroud will enjoy a better offensive line. However, he will also endure much better pass rushers. For the third time in franchise history, the Texans drafted their franchise quarterback. Opponents beat David Carr’s career out of shape. Deshaun Watson violated so many league rules that he could not stay in town. Now, Stroud, unlike his predecessors, will actually have a contemporary on defense, looking to accomplish similar greatness.

Third Time Charm?

Jadeveon Clowney made one play in college and every fanboy saw him as a Julius Peppers clone. A decade later, he is still looking for his first double-digit sack season. On the other hand, Will Anderson arrives in Houston with lesser hype, but more skill. Anderson, through hours of film, displays the ability to wreck offensive gameplans. With the ability to win with burst, length or feet, Anderson should have an immediate impact for the Texans. With that said, he cannot do it alone. Meaning, the other three defensive linemen must provide any disruption. Anderson needs a bookend and interior pressure, or the protection will slide his way and teams will abuse Houston upfront.

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by Full Press Coverage on May 27, 2023 at 7:49 pm

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Stroud Expectation In 2023

For this year, all C.J. Stroud needs to do is improve. Scan through progressions faster, find targets at all three levels. Also, he needs to develop a feel for the game, understanding that defenses will attempt to bait, trick or assault him in the pocket. Most importantly, the rookie must play fast and be decisive. In the NFL, throwing windows exist. However, they do nor remain open for long and the ball needs to come out quickly. Quicker throws need quick eyes to succeed. Statistically, sixty-three percent completions with a 2:1 TD/INT ratio should be the baseline.

Anderson Expectation In 2023

The easy route would be to forecast a double-digit sack total. Now, that is the floor. The ceiling requires tackles for loss, forced fumbles and the ability to set the edge. Veteran offensive linemen salivate at the prospect of engaging a rookie edge rusher. Anderson must attempt to stay a step ahead, both physically and mentally. Vary the rush. If a move worked once during a drive, do not overuse it. Offensive linemen in the NFL are big, but not stupid. They pick up patterns.

Overview

The Houston Texans appeared to set themselves up for a strong future. Now, the task at hand, looks like the following. First, give DeMeco Ryans enough time to reset the franchise after years of inept upper management. Next, surround Stroud and Anderson with talent. Plus, bring in depth. The NFL game is one of attrition. Lastly, don’t change too much of what made these players two of the top three overall selections.