Texans should consider Oklahoma WR Marvin Mims if receivers go early and often

The Houston Texans’ first three picks in the 2023 NFL draft are more than likely going to be spent on quarterback, receiver, and defensive end. There is some conjecture as to whether wideout or edge rusher is the second-greatest need, and visa versa.

After getting their franchise quarterback at No. 2 overall, the Texans can use their No. 12 overall pick to take an edge rusher. Their next pick won’t be until No. 33 overall, the second pick of Round 2.

If the Texans wait until then to address receiver, and there is a run on them in the first round, Houston could still find value on Day 2.

According to Matt Bowen from ESPN, the one wideout who would be a good fit for the Texans is Oklahoma’s Marvin Mims, who Bowen believes would make sense as Houston’s target at No. 65 overall in Round 3.

Why he fits: With the expectation that Houston drafts a quarterback at No. 2 overall, DeMeco Ryans has to look for a wide receiver with big-play chops and run-after-catch ability. That’s Mims, who can play inside or outside in a pro system. While his college route tree will need to expand against NFL defenses, Mims has the 4.38 speed to get over the top of safeties on vertical throws. His 20.1 yards per catch ranked third in the country last season.

Mims can also lift the secondary, opening up intermediate windows on schemed concepts. And with so many crossers and over routes in today’s NFL, Mims can be set up to run away from man coverage. The Oklahoma product has the traits to complement Nico Collins and Robert Woods well in Houston.

Going with Mims at that stage in the draft would give Houston flexibility with their second-round pick to take an impactful player anywhere on the roster, or shore up their interior offensive line.