Texans Expert Forecasts Potential Texans Roster Additions
Beyond the top picks, which overlooked Texans rookies can carve out a 2026 roster spot? Discover the late-round gems poised for impact.
The NFL draft is complete after teams made their picks over the weekend. The Houston Texans have plenty of options that could make their 2026 squad. Much of the focus of the draft centers around the first two rounds of picks where premium players usually get selected.
The Texans added two big time pieces in Georgia Tech offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge and Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. Many view those two players are foregone conclusions to make the roster next season, but who could make the team beyond them? Houston Texans on SI's Jared Koch discussed players who could end up on the 2026 roster.
Among them, Oklahoma offensive lineman Febechi Nwaiwu who the team picked up on the third day of the draft. Here's what Koch had to say on Nwaiwu's chances to make the team. "Nwaiwu was the Texans' top pick on day three in the first 10 picks of round four, so he's probably got the best chance on this list to make the roster as is, simply based on the investment put into him.
But Nwaiwu will also be a nice developmental piece on Houston's offensive line, who's experienced with proven versatility at multiple positions. On paper, he projects to be a depth option initially in year one, then can compete for a steadier starting spot further down the line. The competition for the Texans' depth chart on the interior could be a fierce battle between veterans and now two incoming rookies joining the fold.