For the Houston Texans, using the 23rd pick in the upcoming NFL Draft to enhance the offensive support for C.J. Stroud is a compelling argument.
The Texans already have plenty of offensive firepower, but with Dalton Schultz and Noah Brown - two of Stroud's top targets - hitting free agency, they could look toward adding a pass catcher.
However, the Texans must also address critical defensive needs, including in pass defense, with the impending free agency of cornerbacks Steven Nelson, Tavierre Thomas, and Kris Boyd.
And with that in mind, NFL.com analyst Eric Edholm forecasts the Texans to select Clemson Tigers cornerback Nate Wiggins with their first-round pick, providing Houston with a tall and athletically talented counterpart to Derek Stingley Jr.
"There's a strong case for using this selection to upgrade the talent around C.J. Stroud on offense, but the Texans also have some pressing defensive needs to consider," Edhold said. "CB Steven Nelson is a free agent-to-be. Wiggins would give Houston a long, athletically gifted complement to Derek Stingley Jr."
The former Clemson star finished his career with the Tigers making 60 tackles (49 solo), three tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions, and 21 passes defended.
You can check out NFL.com's scouting report of Wiggins below:
Strengths
- Long frame should be able to support adding good weight.
- Smooth backpedal in man and athletic field coverage in Cover 3.
- Outstanding feel for the rhythm of the route.
- Hips on a swivel for easy lateral transitions.
- Feet and balance help to phase routes up and down the sideline.
- Instinctive with the ability to read clues quarterbacks and receivers provide.
- Blazing recovery speed to run and catch just about anyone.
- Had two pick-sixes and a blocked field goal off the edge during his career
Weaknesses
- Too much cushion allowed in off-man coverages.
- Tardy timing to flip and run with the route allowed deep-ball opportunities.
- Face-guards deep balls, leaving too much catch clearance for the target.
- Still room for additional aggression and decisiveness in attacking throws.
- Awareness and effort were disappointing in run support.
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