Texans Stay Aggressive During Final Rounds Of 2023 NFL Draft

The Houston Texans closed the 2023 NFL Draft by making a handful of trades while adding talent to their defense.

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans were arguably the most aggressive teams since the start of the 2023 NFL Draft. And on Saturday, the third and final day, the Texans maintained their aggressiveness.

Houston orchestrated three trades that coincided with general manager Nick Caserio's plan to "stay true to the formula" during the final four rounds.

The Texans began the day by replenishing their third-round pick in 2024 by trading the No. 105 selection to the Philadelphia Eagles. Houston made two more trades but used the assets to add to its rookie class. The Texans sent their original 2024 third-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals to complete a blockbuster trade Thursday night.

Dylan Horton, EDGE, TCU drafted fourth round, No. 109 overall

The Texans' first trade of the day came before the selection of EDGE rusher Dylan Horton from TCU at No. 109. Houston was able to make the selection following a trade that sent picks 104 and 203 to the Las Vegas Raiders for the No. 109 and 174 selections.

Horton became the second defensive prospect the Texans selected after taking Will Anderson Jr. with the No. 3 pick. He brings versatility to Houston's defense as a prospect who has played on all three levels. 

Horton finished his collegiate career at TCU as a defensive end. But before his senior season, Horton played defensive back and linebacker. He finished his career at TCU with 110 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

"I'm aggressive," Horton said. "I am a leader off the field and on the field. I was a captain last year. That was a great honor. I am excited to be part of this Texans defense."

Henry To'oTo'o, LB, Alabama drafted sixth round, No. 167 overall

The Texans used their second pick of Day 3 to take another defensive prospect from Alabama. They traded with the Los Angeles Rams to No. 167 for linebacker Henry To'oTo'o. In the exchange, the Texans sent picks No. 174 and 259 to Los Angeles. 

To'oTo'o, who played running back in high school, finished his college career at Alabama with 205 tackles, 6.5 sacks and one pass deflection.

"I am extremely excited to play for coach DeMeco Ryans," To'oTo'o said. "He is a great head coach and a great person. So excited to be part of his team."

Jarrett Patterson, OL, Notre Dame drafted sixth round, No. 201 overall

The Texans added to their offensive line with the selection of Jarrett Patterson with the No. 201 overall pick. He will be a solid addition to Houston's offensive line to help protect quarterback C.J. Stroud, given that he did not allow a sack throughout his college career at Notre Dame.

"For me, it's about being smart, tough and dependable," Patterson said. "I can play all over, but I feel more comfortable at center."

Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Iowa State drafted sixth round, No. 205 overall

Houston drafted their second wide receiver with the No. 205 pick by adding Xavier Hutchinson from Iowa State.

As a 6-foot-3 prospect, Hutchinson played three seasons for the Hawkeyes after a short stay at Blinn College. He finished his career in the Big 12 with 254 catches for 2,929 yards and 15 touchdowns.

Hutchinson is excited to join Stroud in Houston after watching his college career at Ohio State.

"I feel like I am a very versatile player," Hutchinson said. "I can play the slot and out wide. I am great with the ball in my hands. I have great YAC. And I can make great catches. I am excited and blessed to be joining the Texans."

Brandon Hill, S, Pitts drafted seven round, No. 248 overall

The Texans' final selection led to safety Brandon Hill from Pitts with the No. 248 pick. Hill played four seasons for the Panthers, where he recorded 175 tackles and three interceptions. 

"This process has been great, so blessed to have coach DeMeco for giving me this opportunity," Hill said. "I'm a physical, fast strong safety that's ready to fly around and make plays."

The Texans concluded the draft with nine prospects. They will begin their pro careers on May 12, which is the start of rookie mini-camp at the Houston Methodist Training Center.

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