Will Houston Texans Bolster Defense in 2024 NFL Mock Draft?

The Texans improved on offense and now the focus shifts their defense.

By Ray Lucas

Jan 1, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish cornerback Cam Hart (5) against the
Jan 1, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish cornerback Cam Hart (5) against the / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Texans don't have a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, but there could be plenty of value in the second round.

As the event nears, Chad Reuter of NFL.com tabbed Notre Dame cornerback Cam Hart and Texas A&M linebacker Edgerrin Cooper as the top choices for Houston.

Oct 28, 2023; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (45)
Oct 28, 2023; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (45) / Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports

"Trading for receiver Stefon Diggs allows the Texans to address other needs with their two second-round selections," Reuter wrote. "Hart's combination of size and speed make him a nice fit in Houston, especially with free-agent signees Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson coming off injury-shortened seasons. Cooper's speed could earn him a second-round slot, setting him up to attack plays in the backfield and to the boundary in DeMeco Ryans' defense."

Hart was productive for three seasons at Notre Dame, with his best statistical season being his last, totaling 21 tackles, four passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. He was impressive in 2021 as well, finishing with 41 tackles, seven passes defensed and two interceptions. 

Cooper is fresh off the best season of his collegiate career. He totaled 83 tackles (39 solo), eight sacks, two forced fumbles, one recovery and two passes defensed.

Cooper's ability to stay engaged despite a pressure-filled, bumpy season for the Aggies says plenty about his mental fortitude. The same can be said about Hart, who had to endure the rollercoaster of Notre Dame's hot start and slow finish. 

Day 1 of the NFL Draft kicks off on Thursday April 25, with the Texans not set to be on the clock until Day 2.