Houston general manager Nick Caserio said Burkhead's increased role at the end of 2021 was borne "more out of need than anything else," Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

That comment suggests the team views Burkhead as a complementary piece in 2022, and not the lead back. The Texans are expected to explore the free-agent market for team-friendly, affordable options, but they could also add a back after the first round of the draft. Houston holds the third-overall pick in the draft and is thought to be looking at help on the offensive line or defense, per John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.