The Houston Texans are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting 2026 NFL season, but in the world of football, it's never too early to look ahead. A new way-too-early 2027 mock draft from CBS Sports has the Texans making a surprising move inside the top 20, and it's already sparking debate among fans and analysts alike.
Heading into the 2025 draft, Houston was rumored to be targeting several key positions of need—wide receiver, defensive tackle, and interior offensive line. General Manager Nick Caserio ultimately addressed two of those areas by selecting Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald and Georgia Tech offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge. But with an eye on sustained success, the question remains: what could be the top priority for 2027?
In CBS Sports' latest mock draft, the Texans find themselves picking at No. 20 overall after a wild-card round exit. That's where things get interesting. Analyst Josh Edwards has Houston passing on a running back or another lineman in favor of a weapon for Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud. But instead of grabbing a wide receiver, the pick is Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson.
"Houston has not had a difference-making tight end, and perhaps that is not by design, but it has always been a key element to the San Francisco offenses," Edwards wrote, referencing the offensive philosophy of Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, who comes from the 49ers' coaching tree. "There was some criticism of Kenyon Sadiq's production this season, but it was partly due to Jamari Johnson's inclusion."
Johnson is expected to be one of the breakout players in Eugene next season after Sadiq departs for the NFL. As the No. 2 tight end, Johnson hauled in 32 catches for 510 yards and three touchdowns, often operating as a fifth option in the passing game and seeing most of his reps in 12 or 13 personnel packages. At 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds, he brings a blend of size and athleticism that could make him a matchup nightmare.
In theory, it's not a terrible selection—especially given Johnson's upside as a receiving threat. But the fit raises eyebrows. Houston just invested a top-60 pick in Michigan's Marlin Klein, who boasts a nearly identical frame and play style. Drafting Johnson would essentially be a vote of no confidence in that second-round pick after just one season.
Whether the Texans go tight end, wide receiver, or shore up the trenches, one thing is clear: the future in Houston is bright, and the front office is already thinking ahead. For fans looking to rep their team in style, now is the perfect time to grab Texans gear—because championship windows don't stay open forever.