Houston Texans 7-round mock draft: Protecting DeShaun Watson

Round 1 (23): Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State

DeShaun Watson was sacked a shocking 62 times in 2018. That is tied for the 5th most in the history of the NFL and the most since Jon Kitna’s 63 in 2006.

The Texans have needed help on their offensive line for a while now and it’s about time they find a real anchor to keep their franchise quarterback upright.

If Washington State’s Andre Dillard is available at 23, the Texans should sprint to submit the selection.

Dillard thrives in pass protection after getting plenty of practice in Mike Leach’s pass heavy offense, as he anchored a line that was tasked with protecting for nearly 700 pass attempts in 2018.

Even with all of those reps, Dillard allowed just one sack, which is absolutely insane.

This led to the 6’5”, 315 pounder being named First Team All-Pac-12 and was an AP Third Team All-American.

Dillard is a fluid athlete that can move as well as any lineman in this class and has the footwork and hand usage that you look for in a starting tackle.

The only real question mark with the former Cougar is whether or not he can run block at the next level.

While his pass protection skills are evident, there isn’t a ton to go off of in terms of his ability in the run game. There are certainly moments on tape that suggest he can hold his own, but there may be some early growing pains as he looks to prove he can move forward off the snap.

The Texans have several needs but none as important as making sure Watson keeps his jersey clean. Dillard should be at the top of Houston’s board.