Houston’s Future: Tyler Booker Lands with Texans in Mock Draft

An offensive lineman being picked by the Houston Texans in the 2025 draft should be one of the least shocking predictions after C.J. Stroud was sacked eight times in the divisional round. Paired with the mass inconsistency in the run game throughout the season and a coach who preaches physicality, it’s easy to believe the Texans would strongly consider drafting 6’5”, 330-pound Tyler Booker in the first round.

What He Brings

Tyler Booker could potentially add a level of physicality and attitude that the Texans have lacked for a while. His frame and mindset could provide the Texans with a tone-setting "people-mover" who could redefine the team’s identity. While at Alabama, Booker showcased a strong anchor in pass protection and the ability to drive defensive linemen backward in the run game, often finishing with violence. Additionally, he’s demonstrated versatility, having played both guard positions in the SEC.

Scheme Fit

Tyler Booker isn’t the prototypical fit for an outside-zone-based interior offensive lineman due to his size alone. Many players his size lack the lateral quickness required for such schemes. However, while he might not be an ideal fit if movement skills are a concern, the Texans have shown a willingness to incorporate power concepts into their attack.

In 2023, Bobby Slowik’s first year as offensive coordinator, the Texans ran zone concepts around 55% of the time, a number that increased to approximately 65% in 2024, according to PFF. That said, the NFL has seen shifts away from zone schemes in recent years. For example, Sean McVay’s Rams transitioned to more power/gap schemes due to challenges in pass protection. McVay noted that the change was driven by the need to provide Matthew Stafford with a firmer pocket, and the resulting personnel adjustments shifted the team's philosophy.

Given the Texans’ struggles to protect Stroud this past season, could this line of thinking resonate with Houston’s coaching staff? If Booker isn’t seen as a perfect fit for a zone-blocking team, the Texans might still consider him, especially if they’re willing to adapt their scheme.

How He Fits with the Roster

Booker’s film shows great anchor and awareness in pass protection, along with mass and power in the run game. His presence could complement the Texans’ centers, Jarrett Patterson and Juice Scruggs, particularly in the run game. Furthermore, pairing Booker with Blake Fisher, who has shown an ability to work to the second level in the run game—notably in the Chiefs divisional round—could strengthen the right side of the offensive line. If Fisher makes strides in pass protection, adding Booker could shore up the Texans’ offensive line and transform it into a reliable unit for the 2025 season.

In conclusion, while Tyler Booker might not be the archetype for a zone-blocking scheme, his physical traits, versatility, and potential to reshape the team’s identity make him a compelling option for the Texans. If protecting Stroud and improving the run game remain priorities, Booker could be the perfect addition to a line in need of reinforcements.

Watch our latest livestream about Texans new offensive coordinator Nick Caley