Texans Targeting OL Depth in NFL Draft: Washington Huskies Jaxson Kirkland?

The Houston Texans may look to the middle rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft to add depth to their offensive line.

With the Houston Texans undoubtedly hard at work scouting options to are considered to upgrade their quarterback room for 2023 via the NFL Draft, they are also building quite a formidable offensive line.

With the re-signing of three-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil, the Texans are clearly showing that they are invested in the protection of their new signal caller, no matter who he may be.

Though Tunsil's retention is the most prominent sign of their commitment, Houston's acquisition of guard Shaq Mason may end up being one of the team's best under-the-radar moves of the offseason. 

Still, Houston knows the value of depth along their offensive line as well as any team. As the Texans possess several mid-to-late-round picks which can help add depth, help along the offensive line is likely to be a target position. 

One prospect to watch is Washington offensive tackle, Jaxson Kirkland.

Kirkland was one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the nation in 2021. Having received the John P. Angel Linemen of the Year Award in both 2019 and 2020, he seemed poised for an early-round selection in the upcoming Draft. 

However, he chose to return to school after suffering a severe ankle injury; subsequently forcing his move inside to the guard position.

Still, Kirkland is a tackle both by nature and design. At 6-7, 310 pounds, he has both the size and athleticism to handle the blindside at the next level.

Though he possesses better-than-average timing in the run game, he is at his best in pass protection due to his exceptional football intelligence and field awareness. In order to solidify his standing as a pro-level stater, Kirkland will need to add some bulk in his lower body to keep himself better anchored.

Should Kirkland remain on the draft board as day two blends into day three, the Texans would be wise to give him strong consideration to solidify their line for the foreseeable future. 

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Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL.

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