The Houston Texans are on the clock at pick No. 28, and the debate is heating up. With the 2026 NFL Draft just days away, the big question in Houston is clear: bolster the defensive interior or double down on protecting franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud? According to respected NFL draft analyst Todd McShay's latest mock draft, the Texans are choosing protection.
McShay projects Houston to select Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, an All-Big 12 lineman, with their first-round pick. This move signals a commitment to building a dominant, long-term offensive line around Stroud, aiming to recreate the conditions for his standout rookie season.
The Texans' offseason already focused on the trenches, adding veteran right guard Braden Smith and running back David Montgomery. However, McShay sees Iheanachor as the crucial piece for future stability. Smith's recent injury history and two-year contract make the right tackle spot a key area for succession planning. Iheanachor, with his impressive physical traits and rapid development, is viewed as the ideal heir.
What makes this pick especially intriguing is the flexibility it provides. Iheanachor could compete immediately at right tackle, potentially allowing Smith to slide inside to guard. This would create a fierce training camp battle to find the best possible five-man unit upfront, a dream scenario for any offensive coordinator.
Iheanachor's story is one of remarkable ascent. A relative newcomer to football after growing up in Nigeria without playing high school ball, his raw power and athleticism are undeniable. While he's still refining his technique—working on hand placement and leverage—his trajectory suggests a incredibly high ceiling. For a Texans team with Super Bowl aspirations, securing a cornerstone tackle with this much upside is a strategic home run.
By investing in Iheanachor, Houston isn't just picking a player; they're investing in Stroud's security and the longevity of their championship window. In the brutal AFC, winning starts in the trenches, and this mock draft selection shows the Texans are ready to build a fortress.