Drew Dougherty

Got a question about the Texans?

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He's been with the Texans since 2009 and is chock full of meaningful, as well as generally useless, information. Fire away by clickingHERE.

Ray Bell: Dear Drew, Do any of the many mock drafts ever affect the choices the Texans make, or do they ignore them?

DD: Terrific question, Ray. The short answer: they don't ignore mock drafts, but I doubt they play any role in the actual selection of a player.

Executive Vice President/General Manager Nick Caserio and his staff have spent countless hours over the years evaluating each draft class. In most cases, each player Houston picks has been observed at practice, in season, at his school. He's been evaluated live by scouts at multiple games. His game tape as been pored over. He's interviewed with the scouts and personnel formally and informally at a college all star game, and his practices and performance in that game have been evaluated in person as well. Then his Combine interviews--both formal and informal--have likely taken place. He's also likely been scouted at his school's pro day, and maybe even visited the NRG Stadium facilities for a visit.

On top of that, the Texans have talked to the players' coaches, strength coaches, and several others with information about him.

All of that information is synthesized ahead of the Draft. I'm sure the scouts look at media members' mock drafts with a bit of interest, but Caserio and company are relying on the evaluations and information they've gathered over the last few years on the prospect over the mocks.

They're a lot of fun for you and me, but they ultimately don't really change what the decision-makers do on Draft Weekend.

Speaking of mock drafts, here's thelatest Mock Draft Roundupfrom last week, if you're interested.

Rhoda Clark: Dear Drew, What's your opinion of Cade Stover? I watched him over the past season and he looked good considering that this was his first year. What are your thoughts? Thank you for your time and attention.

DD: Rhoda, the guy can clearly play. And thank you for sending in this question.

As a rookie tight end, Stover caught 15 passes last season for 133 yards and a touchdown. His best game of the year came in the playoff win over the Chargers, when he caught a career-best four passes for 28 yards. He's tough, he contributes on special teams, and he's still in the embryonic stages of playing tight end. After all: he didn't start playing the position full-time until his junior year at Ohio State in 2022.

It will be fascinating to see how he develops with a full offseason as a pro under his belt, as this time last year he was more focused on preparing for the Combine, Pro Day, and the NFL Draft. Like the rest of his teammates, he'll also be learning a new offense as well, so Stover is a player to watch in 2025.

Deven Fomby: Dear Drew, When are you coming out and tailgate with the real fans? What lot? Which game? Leggggo!!!!

DD: Let me know, Deven. I'll roll out and find you all. I like tailgating. Save me a spot.

Carlos Murillo: Dear Drew, Whomever is in charge of merchandising and staff management at concessions stand and specialty bars needs a raise and a day of recognition during a game. My wife now happily agrees to come to the games (club section) for the new foods and drinks and enjoys showing off her new gear.

Also is this our year?

DD: Thanks Carlos, I'm glad you and the Mrs. are having a great time at Texans games. We're always trying to improve upon what we think is the best fan experience in the NFL. What's your favorite gameday fit that YOU wear? Also, I've sent your note on to our Fan Feedback folks.

As far as this being the Texans' year? Why not? I'm excited about the future of this ballclub, and any squad with an elite defense and a terrific young quarterback is well-positioned to go far.