Why the Texans should pick Will Anderson Jr at No. 2

The Houston Texans currently hold the No. 2 pick in the draft later this month. The franchise is widely expected to draft a quarterback with their first selection in the event. There is definitely a need for a new quarterback after a disappointing 2022 season.

Alabama's Bryce Young and Ohio State's C.J. Stroud have been linked to the team. The franchise is expected to draft whichever one is not selected by the Carolina Panthers, who have traded up to draft their most preferred signal-caller prospect.

The Texans hold two first-round picks in the upcoming draft with the other at No.12. Despite the Texans' immediate need for a quarterback, would it be an astute draft decision to pass on selecting a signal-caller at No. 2 to pick Will Anderson Jr.?

Will Anderson Jr.'s profile and strength

NFL Combine

Anderson is touted as the biggest prospect in the draft. The edge rusher received multiple awards while playing for Alabama, including the Bronko Nagurski Trophy on two occasions, and was a member of Alabama's national championship-winning team in 2020.

With a sturdy physique and lengthy arms, Anderson possesses the necessary weapons to burst off the line of scrimmage and the proficiency to consistently disrupt the edges, creating opportunities to rush through the interior with his adept inside moves.

Even when faced with obstacles around the corner or at an angle, Anderson's footwork, ability to turn sharply, and rapid closing speed enable him to penetrate the pocket effectively. The linebacker exhibits an exceptional ability to turn the corner with great agility.

Anderson possesses a diverse range of techniques such as shucks, swipes, rips, ghost moves, and swims, which he employs with effectiveness in penetrating opposing backfields and applying pressure on the quarterback. He is certainly a defensive player every NFL team will want on their roster and a golden opportunity for the Texans.

Why Anderson is a brilliant option for the Texans

2021 SEC Championship - Georgia v Alabama

The Texans definitely have an unrivaled path toward selecting Anderson in the draft. Their decline as the worst team in the NFL cannot be solely attributed to poor quarterback play in recent seasons, as the team has also faced organizational problems.

Anderson is a refined edge rusher who possesses a complete set of skills and accolades that scouts could envision. He stands out as the most highly-anticipated prospect in the 2023 draft class, one that immediately improves the Houston Texans from the first minute.

His exceptional talent and commitment bode well for a potential legendary football career. If not for the dire need for a quarterback on the part of the Panthers, who traded up to the No.1 pick, Anderson would have been a clear-cut candidate for the first overall pick.

The Texans also hold the No. 12 pick in the upcoming draft. This can still guarantee them the selection of a top quarterback during the first round of the event. Unless we see unforeseen trades that tweak the draft order, the possibility of selecting five quarterbacks before the 12th pick is slim. This could guarantee the Texans select Hendon Hooker at the very least.