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The Houston Texans may not be selecting a quarterback with their second overall pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. Instead, rumors have surfaced that the Texans may opt for Alabama pass-rusher Will Anderson with the second overall pick.
The decision could be based on the Texans’ belief that Anderson is the cleanest prospect in this year’s draft. Despite a dire need at quarterback, the Texans could opt to draft Anderson at two overall and wait to select their quarterback with their 12th overall pick. Alternatively, they could trade up from their 12th overall pick to get the quarterback they desire.
This speculation is fueled by a comment made by an anonymous league personnel man who told FMIA’s writer Peter King, “It’s a stretch, but I could see Texans general manager Nick Caserio taking Will Anderson, then using his second [first-round pick] and trading back up to get his quarterback.”
If the Texans do choose to pass on a quarterback with their second overall pick, it could cause a domino effect in the draft. The Panthers, who hold the first overall pick, are expected to select Alabama quarterback Bryce Young. This leaves Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, Florida’s Anthony Richardson, and Kentucky’s Will Levis as the likely potential quarterback options for the Texans.
However, the Colts also have a dire need at quarterback and hold the fourth overall pick. If the Texans do not select a quarterback with their second overall pick, the Colts may have an opportunity to select one of the top quarterbacks in the draft. This could prompt the Texans to trade up from their 12th overall pick to secure the quarterback they desire.
It’s also worth noting that the Cardinals hold the third overall pick, but they do not have a need at quarterback as they already have Kyler Murray. They could trade down with teams that do have a need at quarterback, such as the Colts or even the Texans themselves.
The 2023 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, with multiple teams in need of a quarterback and talented prospects available at the position. It remains to be seen what decision the Texans will make with their second overall pick, but if they do select Will Anderson, it could be a game-changer for their defense.