How Texans No. 12 pick just got really interesting (and somewhat controversial)
VALUE SHOPPING?
16 March 2023
The Houston Texans have an opportunity to draft one of the top QBs in the draft with the No. 2 overall pick. Assuming they do exactly that, and draft either Bryce Young or CJ Stroud, what should they do with the No. 12 pick?
Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter has been falling down draft boards after being charged with drag racing after the National Championship game. And this week, Carter caught more criticism for being nine pounds heavier at his pro day, than he was at the NFL Combine. Plus, Carter appeared out of shape at his workout.
If Carter tumbles down the draft board, he could be a great value for a team like the Texans from a football standpoint.
Which made us question if Carter's reported character issues would keep him off the Texans draft board.
And if so, which player or position should the team look to address with their second first round pick?
Be sure to check out the video above as the guys discuss the likelihood of the Texans drafting Carter, and why a WR would make a lot of sense for Houston at No. 12 overall.
If you enjoy the videos. subscribe on YouTube for our latest content.
Listen to The Bench with John and Lance weekdays from 7-10AM on ESPN 97.5 and 92.5.
How Jeremy Peña’s breakout season comes with a twist for Astros
Jun 24, 2025, 4:31 pm
Jeremy Peña is putting together the best season of his career, and it’s time to start asking some serious questions about what comes next.
After a strong rookie campaign and a magical playoff run in 2022, Peña has reemerged as one of the best shortstops in baseball. His numbers are now right in line with, and in some cases better than, Bobby Witt Jr., the player many consider the gold standard at the position. But Peña's resurgence isn't the only headline, he’s now officially signed with Scott Boras, baseball’s most powerful agent, signaling that a major payday could be on the horizon.
That decision raises real questions about Peña’s future in Houston. With just two years left on his deal, is he heading toward the same path as other homegrown stars who have ultimately walked in free agency? Or will the Astros finally reverse course and invest long-term in one of their own? The team’s payroll philosophy, built around letting expensive veterans leave while developing new talent, has worked for years. But Peña’s rise is testing just how far that system can stretch.
As his star continues to rise, the pressure is mounting. Will Houston commit to keeping him, or let another one slip away?
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's Paul Gallant weighs in!
__________________________
Looking to get the word out about your business, products, or services? Consider advertising on SportsMap! It's a great way to get in front of Houston sports fans. Click the link below for more information!
