Houston Texans 2022 Mock Draft: Best Player Available Approach

Round 2, 35th Overall: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa

The offensive line should be a priority for the Houston Texans in the 2022 NFL Draft. Tunsil has been one of the best young tackles in the league, but the rest of the group around him hasn’t been stellar. Tytus Howard, a former first rounder, has struggled at tackle and even gotten some reps on the interior. With Marcus Cannon and Justin Britt hurt, the line has been mostly patchwork to this point. Cannon has another year on his contract, but going younger at tackle makes sense.

Trevor Penning might not be the biggest name in the tackle class right now, but he’d be a good pick near the top of the second round. The Northern Iowa standout played a very good game against Iowa State earlier this fall, and is one of the better run blocking tackle prospects. He gets out in space with ease and can reach the second level to sustain blocks. He’s got the athleticism and tools to be a great pass protector as well.

The All-Star circuit will bring more buzz for Penning, and he’d be a great bookend opposite Tunsil for whoever ends up at quarterback for the Texans.