ESPN analyst Peter Schrager’s scenario envisions a trade with the Carolina Panthers to move up nine spots to pick Miller at No. 19. Houston would surrender its first-round pick and a second-rounder, while Miller would instantly become an experienced right tackle, helping open lanes for the running game and keeping Stroud clean.
This potential move comes amid a broad offensive-line overhaul in Houston this offseason. The Texans added Braden Smith, retained Trent Brown, kept Blake Fisher, and resolved left-tackle concerns last year with Aireontae Ersery in a starting role, leaving Miller as the next possible upgrade to anchor the line.
A separate projection from the Houston Chronicle’s Jonathan M. Alexander offers a contrasting path: the Texans trade back from No. 28 to No. 34 to select Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods in the second round. In this plan, Houston would receive additional assets (No. 34, No. 104, and a 2027 sixth-round pick) while the Cardinals would move up to No. 28 to take a quarterback such as Ty Simpson.
Draft predictions frequently shift as teams weigh needs and board grades. These intel-based mock drafts underscore Houston’s ongoing priority to fortify the offensive line while preserving flexibility heading into the draft.
