Texans general manager Rick Smith needs to draft prospects who can make an immediate impact as starters and valuable reserves.
The Texans are the only team in the NFL that has not signed an unrestricted free agent. They lost five, including three starters on defense, and all must be replaced with draft choices, undrafted free agents or players who have been on the roster.
Smith, who is in charge of personnel, is preparing for his 11th draft with the Texans, who have the 25th overall pick. Their primary needs are quarterback and right tackle. They also need players at outside linebacker, cornerback, safety, guard and inside linebacker.