As the dust settles after the Super Bowl, the NFL swiftly pivots its attention to the 2024 draft, and the Houston Texans are poised to make strategic moves to strengthen their roster.
In their recent mock draft, Pro Football Focus (PFF) has projected some help on both sides of the ball for the Texans as they seek to elevate their team for the challenges ahead.
In the offseason, the Texans are confronted with the potential loss of edge rusher Jonathan Greenard to free agency, sparking a focus on fortifying their defensive line. While priority is placed on enhancing the edge, the team acknowledges the importance of interior improvement. In its draft strategy, Houston aims to maximize value by considering prospects like Newton, who offers versatility across the defensive line.
Newton’s lean frame and below-average length limit his effectiveness as an interior defender, making him susceptible to double-teams and combo blocks. His lack of mass caps his power capacity and torque on extensions, while his hands lack elite knockback force, hindering his ability to create movement.
Despite his athleticism, Newton’s below-average length and play strength occasionally impede his ability to control blocks and finish tackles. Additionally, he tends to jump the snap prematurely, resulting in penalties.
