Texans Trade Trick: Houston Picks Derek Stingley - First Half of Plan

Houston's pick at No. 3 is LSU cornerback Derek Stingley.

GM Nick Caserio's Houston Texans are this year's "wild card" when it comes to the NFL Draft, as they have many needs to fill, many ways to go and many weapons at their disposal.

Rumor has it Houston is trying to pick at No. 3 and then move up from No. 13, with the targets being an offensive tackle at 3 (either Ickey Ekwonu or Evan Neal) and LSU cornerback Derek Stingley with the trade up from 13.

And the first half of the plan is complete. Stingley is the guy. read about him here.

Our Cole Thompson, by the way, pegged the Texans to go cornerback at No. 3. Read here.

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Ickey Ekwonu

Ickey Ekwonu

© Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

Ickey Ekwonu

What about offensive line?

Starting Ekwonu or Neal at guard would, in theory, allow new offensive line coach George Warhop to move Tytus Howard back to his more natural position at right tackle.

On paper, that move would have made sense, given Houston's need for a stud interior lineman to help protect quarterback Davis Mills and perhaps assist in establishing a run game - something which eluded the Texans in 2021.

It would also give Houston a natural successor to Tunsil, who has two years left on his current deal, including a potential out after this season.

But instead? Stingley is viewed as the "best available player.''

Now ... at 13 - based on the idea the Texans stay there - SI's Albert Breer has Houston going for Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson. He writes, "Wilson goes home to Texas and gives Nick Caserio a true No. 1 for his offense—and Davis Mills a guy he can really grow with in Year Two. This particular receiver, a polished route runner who can play every receiver spot, should be able to hit the ground running.''

From Thompson, the TexansDaily pick at 13 is a different receiver, Jameson Williams. Thompson writes, "Building around Davis Mills is a priority for Houston this offseason. When healthy, Williams presents the most upside of any receiver in the class thanks to his catch radius and speed. The Texans add a home run threat in the passing attack for the future.''

Sources are telling us regarding Williams that he is a popular move-up target for a number of teams. But for now? Houston has it's first guy ... with another to come.