NFL Mock Draft 2013: Texans select Alec Ogletree with 27th pick

The Houston Texans enter the 2013 NFL Draft needing to replace Connor Barwin, who departed in free agency. They may find their man in the first half, if draftniks are to be believed.

SB Nation's Dan Kadar and Matthew Fairburn released their latest joint mock draft on Monday. In it, they have the Texans selecting Georgia ILB Alec Ogletree with the 27th overall pick:

Other than Ed Reed, the Texans have been relatively quiet in free agency. While Brooks Reed is likely to get moved to the inside, a player like Ogletree can stay on the outside. Ogletree may have some character concerns, but there are no questions about his athleticism and playmaking ability. He's a fluid linebacker adept at dropping in coverage. That would allow Brian Cushing to pay more attention to the run and blitzing.

Houston also has a need at WR after cutting Kevin Walter. If they decide to go in that direction, they could have their pick of DeAndre Hopkins, Cordarralle Patterson or Keenan Allen at the end of the first round.

More from SB Nation:

• NFL mock draft: Finally, some clarity

• Rodgers vs. Matthews: Which Packer gets his extension first?

• This is how Percy Harvin will help the Seahawks

• Elvis Dumervil signs with Ravens

• Mile High Report: Doom's day has come and gone

• NFL Mock Draft: SB Nation bloggers are on the clock