The question I get most often these days is a version of "isn't it better that the Texans lose these last few games and get a better draft choice?"
I never think it's good to lose but I certainly understand the value of a great draft choice. Many NFL aficionados feel the fleeting exhilaration of a win is certainly not worth sacrificing a player who could help your team for years to come.
But I can't imagine a head coach, general manager, owner or player ever thinking that losing is actually good for him or his (their) organization. It goes against every competitive bone in your body. Do you think Gary Kubiak wouldn't want to get his overall record above .500 before the season expires? And even though the media are proponents of sliding in the standings and moving up the draft board, don't think they won't constantly emphasize the won-loss numbers in the face of the organization every chance they get.
The last losing season for the Texans was 2010 at 6-10. They picked 11th in the draft and took a player named J.J. Watt. Had they lost their final game, like a lot of people wanted, they might have nabbed Julio Jones or Aldon Smith. Not that those are bad players, but they're not Watt.
Like gazing at an NFL schedule in April, evaluating draft prospects is speculation and an inexact science.
Winning is healthy. Winning builds confidence and creates positive experiences for your young players.
Take Case Keenum. He hasn't won a start yet. But if he can grab a couple of victories on his way out of 2013, it would be huge for his confidence. Even if quarterback is your first pick, Keenum might still someday play a prominent role as a back-up. You might be in a situation in which he has to lead your team into the post season. 2011, anyone?
Maybe Teddy Bridgewater is the next Joe Montana. Maybe Jadeveon Clowney is the next Watt. Montana was a third round draft choice and Watt went 11th. The thinking here is win and don't worry about the draft until you get to the offseason.
