Nick Caserio’s masterclass of an offseason will reach a crescendo in less than one month when the 2026 NFL Draft commences. The Houston Texans General Manager has filled just about every starting spot on the roster before the draft, which places the team in a unique position to truly draft the best player available.
Even with all of the additions, there are still several holes that need to be addressed via free agency rather than the draft.
Veteran Wide Receiver
Houston returns five receivers from last season: Nico Collins,
Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, and backup Justin Watson. Plus, Tank Dell appears to be ready to go for Training Camp. Houston must add a veteran receiver to complement this young group. Nick Caserio has always supplemented the WR room with a quality veteran (Christian Kirk, Stefon Diggs, Robert Woods, Noah Brown, Brandin Cooks, and Chris Moore), and should do so again before the draft kicks off.
The top free agents (Juan Jennings, Deebo Samuel, Tyreek Hill, and Stefon Diggs) will demand $10M – $15M per year, which is more than Houston can afford. The next tranche of pass catchers are either well-seasoned veterans or inconsistent flame outs.
Top Free Agents Remaining:
- Tyreek HIll
- Stefon Diggs
- Deebo Samuel
- Jauan Jennings
Best Free Agent Fits Remaining:
- Sterling Shepard
- Tim Patrick
- Gabe Davis
Backup Cornerback
Behind Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter lies an unproven combination of backups. Jaylin Smith spent his rookie season on injured reverse due to a hamstring injury. He’s a complete unknown at this moment. Tremon Smith played special teams last season and subbed in for injured Kamari Lassiter, but was picked on when given the opportunity.
A viable CB3 maintains the elite level of play if either Lassiter or Stingley are out of the lineup. Houston doesn’t need to develop another long-term CB, instead they need one who can step in in a pinch if called upon. One that would be an upgrade from Smith would be ideal.
Top Free Agents Remaining:
- Marshon Lattimore
- Trevon Diggs
- Jack Jones
- Adoree Jackson
Best Free Agent Fits Remaining:
- Rasul Douglas
- Avonte Maddox
- Martin Emerson Jr.
- Adoree’ Jackson
Derek Barnett, or his replacement
Derek Barnett is the only former Texans free agent left who is worth considering re-signing. He’s been a consistent and productive backup behind Danielle Hunter for two years, collecting five sacks in each season.
Given the value Houston places on its pass rush, having multiple viable options will never hurt. This is a quality class of pass rushers, but the Texans don’t need to expend a Day Two pick on a bona-fide backup.
It’s imaginable Barnett is pursuing a starting opportunity with a low-end club. If that’s the case, Houston won’t be his desired destination. If Houston cannot strike a deal with Barnett, several veteran options do remain pertinent.
Top Free Agents Remaining:
- Joey Bosa
- Leonard Floyd
- Anfernee Jennings
- Von Miller
Best Free Agent Fits Remaining:
- Anfernee Jennings
- Yetur Gross-Matos
- Marcus Davenport
