National Football League

Fan Mock Draft: Whom should Texans select No. 1 overall?

Published Mar. 31, 2014 1:30 p.m. ET

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It’s draft time! We’ve had our experts tell you who will be drafted where, but now it’s time for you to throw on your GM cap and decide for yourself. Each day we will present an argument for each player and why the respective team should pick them. Then, it’s up to you. You make the pick. The next day, we will compile the results and you can see who is off the board. Disagree with all of the options? Be sure to write in your pick below in the comments section. Ok, let’s get into it. The Houston Texans are on the clock.

It’s a new day in Houston as they’ve shipped their franchise quarterback to Oakland and uprooted the team’s coaching staff. Insert Bill O’Brien, who is an offensive-minded, blue-collar guy, with a knack for grooming productive quarterbacks.

While general manager Rick Smith would likely prefer to deal the No. 1 overall selection for a bounty of picks, finding a trade partner could be a challenge. With Case Keenum, Ryan Fitzpatrick and TJ Yates as the only quarterbacks on the roster, the team could opt to take their favorite arm on the board.

O’Brien and staff, also, can continue to re-tool a defense that is littered with Pro Bowl talent including defensive end JJ Watt. So, who should the Texans take?

South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney

Clowney would instantly give Houston one of the most lethal pass-rushes in the game. Despite being an athletic freak, Clowney’s work ethic was tabbed as just ‘OK’ by his former head coach Steve Spurrier. A 6-foot-5, 266-pound monster who ran a 4.47 in the 40-yard dash would benefit being in a defensive line room led by Bill Kollar and a respected Watt.

Louisville QB Teddy Bridgewater

With an obvious need at quarterback, the Texans might look Bridgewater’s way. While the 6-foot-2, 214-pound quarterback has been knocked for his slender frame, his preparation, ability to operate a pro-style offense and clean footwork makes him an intriguing option. A lackluster pro day sure didn’t help Bridgewater.

Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel

If the Texans are looking to rival the Cowboys as the most polarizing team in Texas, they should look Manziel’s way. After being the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy, Manziel followed it up by another stellar campaign. Although he stands at just 6-feet, 207 pounds, Manziel is built low to the ground with exceedingly big hands and feet. He’s a big play waiting to happen, but NFL evaluators want to know if Manziel can consistently throw from the pocket.

Central Florida QB Blake Bortles

Looking for the prototypical quarterback, who fits the mold of other notable Pro Bowlers? Look no further than Bortles. The 6-foot-5, 232-pound quarterback has the size to endure NFL-sized hits. Bortles throws with plenty of zip and is comfortable making throws on the run. Don’t let him sit in the pocket for too long because he can make you pay on the ground. While he seems to fit the mold, Bortles could need some work and might not immediately produce at the next level.

Buffalo LB Khalil Mack

While the Texans are loaded at outside linebacker with Brooks Reed, Whitney Mercilus and Ricky Sapp, Mack could be an intriguing option. Some draft analysts have tabbed Mack as the most gifted player in the draft, but because he played against lower competition, he doesn’t garner the same type of respect as other players.

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