The Texans did some post draft signings yesterday that
ended with 10 new Texans joining the organization. They include many different
positions, including both offensive and defensive lines. While not all are
draft quality, there are a few diamonds in the rough that I believe the Texans
will be happy to have in coming years.
One such person that I can see good things for with the
Texans is Mike Brisiel, the 6-5 and 282 pound offensive tackle from Colorado State. While at Colorado State, Brisiel was a starter at the left side guard
position. He is a strong player with dependable speed. Brisiel was ranked in
the top 35 for offensive guards available in some reports, and in some cases was
expected to go late in the draft. I believe the Texans got a good value by
signing Brisiel post draft.
Another person that should provide some benefit to the
Texans is USC cornerback John Walker (6-1, 200). The Texans are in need of some
real support at the cornerback position. At USC Walker was known as a sort of
“mentor” to other teammates. He has good size, build, and speed. He has lots
of potential that can not be overlooked by the Texans.
While the Texans did fail to draft a running back in the
first round of the draft, they did draft Wali Lundy in the 6th round and now
signed a second rookie running back in Damien Rhodes (6-0, 217). There was a
lot of interest early on from the Seattle Seahawks in Rhodes, but he slipped off
the draft radar despite being expected from being selected in later draft
rounds. He has good size and decent hands out of the backfield, but is really
more of a special teams player than a starting quality running back.
The Texans also made a good signing with Miami full back
Quadtrine Hill (6-2, 228). Hill has good speed and size, but could probably get
a little bigger to assist him in blocking situations. He has good hands out of
the backfield and could do well at either running back or full back positions.
Hopefully the Texans will be able to use Hill’s versatility to find a niche for
him in Houston.
Overall the Texans made some good additions to the team.
Along with the picks from the draft, the Texans have created a rookie class of
17 players. Coming off of a very disappointing season last year, it is hopeful
that some new blood in the Texans organization, both on the field and on the
sidelines, will improve the lingering sour taste fans have down in Houston.