2012 NFL Draft: NFP Mock Has Texans Taking Alabama SS Mark Barron

The National Football Post posted its first mock draft of the season with Houston picking at No. 26. They've also got Houston taking Alabama strong safety Mark Barron. Here's the logic:

Barron has the ability to be another versatile piece in Wade Phillips defense. He can play inside the box and act as an extra linebacker, he can read and react quickly in the deep half and has shown improved balance/foot quickness this year in man vs. the tight end.

Barron was the second-leading tackler on Alabama's team this season, with 66 tackles in 12 games. He also has four tackles for a loss, two interceptions, 12 pass breakups and a fumble recovery this season. He also has 12 career interceptions, which puts him eighth all-time in Tide history and is a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award for the nation's best defensive back.

We know the Texans have a connection to Alabama, since they've drafted DeMeco Ryans and Kareem Jackson high out of that school. However, I'm not buying that Houston would want to draft a safety this high. With Glover Quin and Danieal Manning looking like they've got the position solidified, I again will back my assertion that Houston may go with a receiver. I also wouldn't be surprised if they went with a guard to serve as a long-term replacement for either Wade Smith or Mike Brisiel.