Texans get Watson protection with OT Tytus Howard

The Houston Texans selected offensive tackle Tytus Howard out of Alabama State with the 23rd overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Deshaun Watson was sacked a league-high 65 times in 2018, and Houston failed to significantly improve its line in free agency.

Houston passed on more highly regarded offensive tackles in Jawaan Taylor and Cody Ford to select the raw Howard, who'll likely need time to develop into a starter.

Prospect profile

School: Alabama State
Height: 6-5
Weight: 322 lbs

Strengths

• Good frame with room to add more weight
• Athleticism translates to fluidity both in pass sets and in space
• Mirrors defenders with good lateral quickness
• Smooth and effective second-level run-blocker
• Has played at both tackle spots

Weaknesses

• Needs to improve play strength in the pros
• Doesn’t yet make good use of length
• Struggles to generate push in running game
• College experience came against lower-level competition

Bottom line

An athletic tackle whose best attribute is his movement ability, both in terms of mirroring pass-rushers and getting out in space in the run game, Howard has a ton of upside. He's a bit of a project, though, as he'll need to get stronger and the jump in competition from FCS to the NFL will be steep. He could be a long-term starter at either tackle spot if he fills out his projectable frame and continues to develop his technique.