Texans Earn High Grade in Sports Illustrated AFC Draft Class Rankings

After a strong showing in the 2023 NFL draft, the Texans lead the AFC South in Sports Illustrated's draft class power rankings.

While we won't see the 2023 draft class in action until this fall, the Houston Texans rookies have a chance to help turn the corner and take another step towards contending once again. 

It was a strong showing for the Texans, as they have been almost universally praised as one of the biggest winners from the draft. In terms of where their class stands among the AFC South and the rest of the AFC as a whole, well, Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame ranked it as the second best in his AFC draft class power rankings.

"The Texans desperately needed to jump-start their moribund franchise in this draft, and they certainly did it," Verderame wrote. "Houston shocked the NFL world by trading up from No. 12 to No. 3, giving it consecutive picks that turned into quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.

"While the cost to move up involved a 2023 second-rounder and a ’24 first-round choice, the price is justified if Stroud and Anderson reach their potential."

Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud and Alabama outside linebacker Will Anderson Jr. were the crown jewels of Houston's draft haul and for good reason. Not only did the Texans land their franchise quarterback of the future but also arguably the best defensive prospect to build around on that side of the ball. 

Aside from Stroud and Anderson, though, the Texans left Kansas City with a haul of impressive picks - with the third-round pick of Houston receiver Tank Dell one that Verderame was impressed with. 

"Additionally, Houston found a hometown kid in receiver Tank Dell," Dell, who played his college ball in Houston with the Cougars, registered 2,727 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns over the past two years."

Houston's draft class came in second to only the Pittsburgh Steelers in Verderame's power rankings, as the Texans also paced the AFC South in terms of rankings. 

The Texans might not be ready to compete for a playoff spot or divisional crown just yet this season, but they are well on their way. If both Stroud and Anderson hit, as well as the rest of their picks providing key depth, then the Texans won't be in the cellar of the AFC South for long. 

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You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98

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