After entering the second round with a clear opportunity to add more talent in the trenches, Houston traded up with the Las Vegas Raiders to select Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald with the No. 36 overall pick. The move ensured the Texans got their guy early on Day 2 rather than risking a slide down the board.

Could the Houston Texans be in business for yet another NFL Draft trade?

The Houston Texans already had the best defense in the NFL. With their first pic of the second round in the NFL Draft, Houston's defense got even better.

Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald's long wait in the 2026 NFL draft green room paid off. McDonald, who waited out Thursday's first round in Pittsburgh, had an emotional reaction to hearing his name called early Friday after the Houston Texans traded up to select him with the fourth pick of Round 2.

A look at some of the most notable winners and losers to come from Houston Texans' first round selection.

C.J. Stroud is already getting used to hanging out with Houston Texans rookie offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge less than 24 hours into his career at the pro level.