In their latest mock draft, Bleacher Report has Washington State’s Andre Dillard joining the Houston Texans with the 23rd overall pick.
This would be an ideal fit for both Dillard and the Texans as current left tackle Julién Davenport is far from living up to expectations. The penalty-prone lineman entering his third year was widely touted as the long term replacement for long-time starter Duane Brown, but since his trade to the Seattle Seahawks, Davenport has struggled to hold his own.
Dillard is everything you look for in a left tackle. Standing at 6-5, 315 pounds he is an imposing figure to say the least. However, this stature doesn’t seem to affect his agility and athleticism which is ideal. His footwork is excellent and helped by both his explosive power and good speed, having recorded a 4.95 in the 40-yard dash at the combine.
He has great balance and his good upper body strength means that together with his power and this overall skill set, Dillard could be a starter for Houston from Week 1.
However, while he would most definitely be an upgrade, indications from various Texans insiders seems to point to Davenport and veteran Seantrel Henderson as the incumbent starters this season, with this year being something of a make or break season for Davenport.
So while he would be a great addition, don’t put too much stock in an early round left tackle such as Dillard joining the Texans this year.
