‘Dynamic, Joystick-Like Playmaker’ — Texans Projected To Draft 28-TD WR To Make Things Easy for C.J. Stroud

The Houston Texans may have found their franchise quarterback in C.J. Stroud, but maximizing his ceiling remains the priority heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.

One of the priorities is protection for Stroud as the Texans continue to build out their offensive line. At the same time, there is a need to elevate the offense to a level where it can consistently deliver in high-pressure playoff games.

Texans Projected To Select KC Concepcion at No. 28 In 2026 NFL Draft

In PFSN’s latest 3-round mock draft, Allison Koehler predicted that the Texans will draft Texas A&M receiver KC Concepcion with the 28th overall pick.

“KC Concepcion broke out as a true freshman at NC State with 1,159 total yards and 10 touchdowns, and after a dip in 2024, he rebounded in 2025 to reestablish his draft stock,” Koehler wrote. Concepcion produced 2,649 yards and 28 total touchdowns across three seasons, combining receiving and rushing production to showcase his versatility as a playmaker.

He established himself as one of the most productive young receivers in the country as a freshman before his numbers dipped in 2024, when he finished with 496 total yards and eight touchdowns.

The three-year starter rebounded in 2025 at Texas A&M with 994 yards and 10 total touchdowns, earning the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player in college football.

“At 5’11”, 187 pounds, he’s a dynamic, joystick-like playmaker with elite change-of-direction, spatial awareness, and versatility, making him dangerous after the catch and capable of creating separation,” she noted.

Houston already has a solid base at wide receiver. Nico Collins has established himself as the No. 1 option and was ranked 12th in PFSN’s WR Impact rankings with an 83.1 score in 2025, while Tee Higgins provides a reliable presence as No. 2.

Veteran Christian Kirk’s departure is the only change to the Texans’ wide receiver room so far this offseason, but his spot is likely to be claimed by Tank Dell as he returns from his season-ending leg injury.

However, there’s also the question of Dell. Before his injury, Dell was one of the most dynamic players in the offense. If he returns to full form, it strengthens the unit. If not, there is a clear opportunity to add that explosiveness through the draft.

Houston’s WR room still appears to be missing a key trait. They don’t consistently have a true space-creating, after-the-catch threat who can turn routine plays into explosive gains. That’s where Concepcion could fit.

His ability to create separation quickly and generate yards after the catch adds a different dimension to the offense, one that can make things easier for Stroud in the big games.

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“While occasional drops remain an issue, his overall skill set and ability to beat press coverage point to high-end, multi-alignment upside as a movement-Z receiver,” Koehler added.

There are still other directions Houston could consider. Stroud has been under pressure at times, particularly in playoff games, leading to turnovers in crucial moments, which also brings the offensive tackle into the conversation.

But if the focus is on elevating the offense and putting Stroud in the best possible position for the long-term, adding a dynamic playmaker remains a strong option at this spot.