A franchise potential All-Pro tackle? That's what the newest mock draft should have the Houston Texans landing next April when on the clock in the top 10, but instead, they're landing a superstar defensive tackle.
In Pro Football Network’s latest 2027 NFL mock draft, the Texans address their interior defensive line pass-rush by selecting Ole Miss All-SEC defensive tackle William Echoles at No.5 overall. PFN did specify that it believes the Texans will move up in the order by the season's end, but for now, it's the BPA approach when inside the top 10.
"Will Echoles can shore up the middle of their defense, both as a run stuffer and pass rusher. He has active hands that allow him to disengage with blockers, and he has the versatility to line up at nose
tackle or three-technique."
Echoles, a first-team All-SEC selection in 2025, is best known for his run-blocking upside and physicality at the line of scrimmage. Last season, as the anchor to a defensive line that pushed its way to the College Football Playoff semifinal, Echoles emerged as a key asset toward the Rebels front seven.
Ole Miss IDL William Echoles is a SUPERSTAR in the 2027 NFL Draft!!
— First And Ten (@FirstAndTenYT) October 31, 2026
Echoles is an explosive, physical interior defensive lineman who uses quick get off, active hands, and natural leverage to disrupt blockers and create movement at the point of attack. His versatility to line up…
Multiple scouts have regarded Echoles as the top interior defensive lineman in the class, though Houston's major needs aren't really on the defensive line. If anything, Houston should be looking to find a long-term replacement for Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter to pair with Will Anderson Jr. Last April, the Texans traded up to land Ohio State All-American Kayden McDonald from Ohio State, so he should see an expanded uptick in snaps next season, thus making the selection of Echoles more unlikely.
To read the full mock draft,click here.
The Texans return to the field this week as they take on the Los Angeles Chargers. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. locally on CBS.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans bolster defensive line, selec All-SEC DL in PFN's 2027 NFL mock draft
