Houston Texans 2022 Mock Draft: Best Player Available Approach

Round 3, 66th Overall: Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia

Corner is another position that the Houston Texans will likely look at early. In a deep class, there will be plenty of talent available on day two. With Terrance Mitchell, Lonnie Johnson, and Jimmy Moreland the only corners set to be on the roster for 2022, getting a lockdown corner is necessary.

Derion Kendrick has had some off-field issues recently regarding his dismissal at Clemson, but he’s flourished so far in the Georgia Bulldogs defense. He plays very patient in man coverage, and has a physical element to his game throughout receivers’ stems and when lined up in press coverage. He’s also feisty at the catch point and has the potential and technique to be a future CB1.

Round 3, 87th Overall: Ainias Smith, Unicorn, Texas A&M

Yes, the Texans held on to Brandin Cooks, and Nico Collins is getting good reps as a rookie. But, adding to the receiver room is still the right call for the next young quarterback who takes the reins.

Ainias Smith could be considered a running back, but he’s gotten reps in the slot and primarily helps out the Aggies offense as a receiver. He would be fantastic in the slot, where he could utilize his short area burst, wicked twitch, and natural hands to separate quickly and make plays after the catch. Nyheim Hines is a good comp, but Smith might be able to do even more in the passing game.