The Houston Texans are reportedly eyeing a few players from the University of Minnesota as potential options for the 2027 NFL Draft. Among those being considered are lineman Greg Johnson and edge rusher Anthony Smith, both of whom have garnered attention for their performances.
Scouts from the Texans, along with teams like the Bears, Dolphins, and Bills, are expected to attend a game at Huntington Bank Stadium, where they will evaluate prospects including Smith, who is anticipated to be a Day 2 pick.
Johnson, on the other hand, is projected by multiple sources to be a first-round selection due to his versatility on the offensive line, having started all thirteen games for Minnesota in various positions.
Johnson, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 325 pounds, has been recognized as the best lineman on his team and is noted for his ability to play multiple roles, which could be valuable for the Texans, who have faced challenges on their offensive line.
With the emergence of rookie Keylan Rutledge, the Texans may be looking to strengthen their front line further, and Johnson could be a strategic choice if available.
Anthony Smith, another standout, led the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks last season and has been praised for his size and athleticism. Smith emphasizes his commitment to preparation and adaptability, aiming to excel in every play. His skills may be particularly appealing to the Texans, who are assessing their long-term defensive options as veteran players age.
