Reshard Cliett to Houston Texans: Full Draft Pick Breakdown

Romeo Crennel’s defense was the strongest point of the Texans’ 2014 season, but you wouldn’t know it given this year’s draft.

The Texans again addressed the linebacker position on Saturday, drafting outside man Reshard Cliett from the University of South Florida. Cliett, a prospect most know very little about, didn’t participate at the Combine, but quietly had a big year.

Cliett had six sacks and 7.5 tackles for a loss last season. He’s the kind of linebacker that will really disrupt quarterbacks and force his way into the pocket, and at 6’2, he closes down the space between himself and the ball carrier to wrap up with a big tackle.

On tape, Cliett looks the goods. He waits for the play to develop, and always seems drawn to the ball, especially on run plays. Still, this isn’t a great pick for the Texans who could’ve drafted a tight end or safety, and since it was made purely for depth and insurance, it’s likely Cliett winds up on the special teams squad.

What the Texans likely saw in Cliett is obvious. He’s got pass rush ability, and could even come in on the edge if he shows potential. Perhaps the best part of Cliett’s game though, is his experience in a 3-4 scheme.

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“I had a good feeling they were one of the top teams that was interested in me from the visit not too long ago," Cliett told Texans.com . "They seemed pretty interested in me. I’m just blessed to have this opportunity.”

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Athletically Cliett could contribute right away. At his pro day he had a 4.4 40-yard dash, and has good enough hands to disrupt passes and force fumbles. It’s all about playing time though, and with savage players like J.J. Watt and Brian Cushing on defense, that’s not about to happen.

Cliett will fall into the long list of guys drafted that have to make a name for themselves on special teams. Out of anyone, he probably has the best chance, since he’s used to making tackles and has the athleticism to lay down blocks.

While we wait and see what the future holds for Cliett, grading this pick for the Texans is hard. Rick Smith easily could have found a safety in the sixth round, and after drafting Benardrick McKinney in the second, selecting another linebacker seems hardly worth it.

If anything, the Texans’ clearly saw more needs on the team than just wide receiver and corner. After this year’s draft, the special teams has no reason not to perform in 2015.