The Houston Texans had the second-worst record in the NFL last season at 3-13-1, and thus will have their second overall pick in this month’s draft.
They had the worst record in the league in Week 18, and some of their fans probably wanted them to lose intentionally in order to gain the No. 1 pick.
Instead, the Texans came back from a seven-point deficit to win 32–31 against the Indianapolis Colts, and even after scoring the touchdown they went for a two-point conversion that gave them a 50-second lead. Brought within one within.
Analyst Mike Meltser questioned whether treating Week 18 as a normal game was a wise decision, especially given the fact that Houston would reportedly draft Bryce Young and not CJ Stroud.
Disclaimer: My brain is currently fried.
Q: If the Texans like Bryce Young to the point where they’ll draft Will Anderson at the 2, I need someone to explain to me how beating the Colts in Week 18 is fair. Would any current MLB or NBA team allow this?
— Mike Meltser (@MikeMeltser) April 6, 2023
Tanking is an issue in pro sports, perhaps less so in the NFL than it is in the NBA, but it is a tactic that some people don’t like for a variety of reasons.
But this year’s draft could be strong, which some would say justifies the tanking.
Young, in many people’s minds, is the top player in the draft, or at least the top quarterback, even if some are concerned about the fact that he’s just 5-foot-10 and less than 200 pounds.
New Texas head coach Demeko Ryan, however, isn’t concerned about Young’s slight stature.
In fact there have been rumors that if the Carolina Panthers, who have the No. 1 pick, take Young, Houston may take a non-quarterback.
If that happens, University of Alabama linebacker Will Anderson could help the team improve on a porous defense last season.
next:
Texans Are Tied To A College Basketball Program For A Sad Mark