With the 12th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans select quarterback Deshaun Watson of Clemson after engineering a trade with the Browns.
- Draft Tracker: Round 1
Houston Texans
Pete Prisco's Grade: C-
"That's a lot to give up to go get him, but they had to do something."
Instant analysis
After the Chiefs moved up to No. 10 to grab Patrick Mahomes, the Texans had no choice but to trade up from No. 25 to get their franchise quarterback. Apparently, the brief Brock Osweiler era motivated Houston to not wait around. Meanwhile, Watson is the most polished of all the quarterbacks in this draft, even if he's the third passer off the board. Watson also has a national-title pedigree, has a knack for showing up big in the biggest moments, and is a natural leader. He also proved in the weeks and months leading up to the draft that he can make all the throws, even those he rarely attempted in college -- Watson was the most accurate passer at the combine, and his dual-threat abilities have drawn comparisons to Marcus Mariota. He'll be a welcome change in Houston.
Fantasy impact
"The Texans needed a quarterback in the worst way, and it was smart to trade up for Deshaun Watson. He could easily start right away, and if that happens he's worth a look in two-quarterback leagues. He's a second-round pick in dynasty leagues, and this is definitely good for DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller." -- Jamey Eisenberg
NFL comparison
Marcus Mariota: In addition to Mariota, Watson has also been compared to Dak Prescott. Wherever the truth lies, the former Clemson star has the poise, pocket presence and mobility to be a special player in the NFL.
