2024 NFL Mock Draft: Houston Texans Take 'Head-Turning' Receiver Keon Coleman

In a new 2024 NFL Mock Draft, the Houston Texans select a receiver.

With a strong start from both rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud and coach DeMeco Ryans, it's beginning to feel like the Houston Texans are no longer the doormats of the NFL. Another productive offseason from general manager Nick Caserio could allow the Texans to contend in 2024. 

To that end, The Athletic recently released their latest 2024 NFL Mock Draft. While the Texans traded their own first-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals to move up and select pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. in the 2023 NFL Draft, they do still own the Cleveland Browns first-round pick as part of the Deshaun Watson trade. And at the No. 21 pick, the outlet projects that the Texans will select Florida State receiver, Keon Coleman. 

"This might be too low in Round 1 for Coleman," The Athletic wrote. "It’s hard to say, as his time at Michigan State was more flash than consistency, but this season’s performance after a transfer to Florida State has been head-turning. He’s a first-round talent, it’s just a matter of where he lands. C.J. Stroud, Nico Collins and Tank Dell would have fun playing alongside him." 

Could the Houston Texans select Keon Coleman in the 2024 NFL Mock Draft?  / USA Today

As mentioned above, Coleman transferred from Michigan State after two campaigns there and has found immediate success at Florida State, hauling in 29 passes for 418 yards and seven touchdowns in six games. 

The Draft Network recently ranked Coleman -- who is 6-foot-4, 210 pounds -- as the No. 15 overall prospect in this year's class. The only receivers ranked above him on their list are Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. It feels like if Coleman continues to play like he has since joining Florida State, he won't last until the 21st pick. 

Whether it's Coleman or another receiver, the Texans could build one of the NFL's best young groups of pass catchers with a major investment at the position. Third-round pick Tank Dell has 19 catches for 324 yards in five games, while Nico Collins is in the midst of a breakout third season, with 29 catches for 547 yards. Add Coleman or another young wideout to that, and Stroud could help Houston return to the playoffs in 2024.