The Houston Texans had the second-worst record in the NFL last season at 3-13-1, and thus they will have the second overall pick in this month’s draft.
They had the worst record in the league heading into Week 18, and some of their fans perhaps wanted them to intentionally lose in order to secure the No. 1 pick.
Instead, the Texans rallied from a late seven-point deficit to win 32-31 against the Indianapolis Colts, and they even went for a two-point conversion after scoring the touchdown that brought them to within one with 50 seconds left.
Analyst Mike Meltser questioned whether it was a wise decision to treat Week 18 as a normal game, especially given the fact that Houston reportedly would rather draft Bryce Young and not C.J. Stroud.
Disclaimer: my brain is currently fried.
Question: if the Texans prefer Bryce Young to the point where they would draft Will Anderson at 2, I need someone to explain to me how beating the Colts in Week 18 is justifiable. Would any existing MLB or NBA team have allowed that?
— Mike Meltser (@MikeMeltser) April 6, 2023
Tanking is an issue in pro sports, perhaps less so in the NFL than in the NBA, but it is a tactic some do not like for various reasons.
But this year’s draft could turn out to be a strong one, which some would say justifies tanking.
Young, in the minds of many, is the top player in the draft, or at least the top quarterback, even if some are concerned about the fact that he’s just 5-foot-10 and less than 200 pounds.
New Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, however, isn’t concerned about Young’s modest stature.
There have indeed been rumors that if the Carolina Panthers, who have the No. 1 pick, take Young, Houston may take a non-quarterback.
If that happens, Will Anderson, a University of Alabama linebacker, could help the team improve what was a porous defense last season.
NEXT:
The Texans Are Tied With A College Basketball Program For A Sad Mark
