Houston moved up to pick No. 60 for cornerback Brandon…
Houston moved up to pick No. 60 for cornerback Brandon Harris, sending New England picks No. 73 and No. 138. The Patriots selected running back Stevan Ridley and tackle Marcus Cannon. Ridley produced a 1,200-yard rushing season and multiple productive years, while Cannon became a long-term offensive lineman and championship contributor. Harris never established a comparable role in Houston, making this one of New England's strongest move-down outcomes.
Houston Texans Received
- pick 2011 2nd round pick (60th overall, Brandon Harris)
New England Patriots Received
- pick 2011 3rd round pick (73rd overall, Stevan Ridley)
- pick 2011 5th round pick (138th overall, Marcus Cannon)
Trade Analysis
Why Houston Moved Up
Houston climbed from the third round into pick No. 60 to select Miami cornerback Brandon Harris. The Texans sent New England third-round pick No. 73 and fifth-round pick No. 138. The move reflected a desire to add secondary help to a defense that was being rebuilt under coordinator Wade Phillips.
What New England Found at No. 73
The Patriots used the third-rounder on running back Stevan Ridley. He quickly became a major part of the offense and rushed for more than 1,200 yards with 12 touchdowns in 2012. Ridley supplied several productive seasons and helped New England maintain a balanced offense during another championship-contending period.
How Marcus Cannon Multiplied the Return
Pick No. 138 became offensive tackle Marcus Cannon. Medical concerns contributed to his draft slide, but New England was patient and eventually received years of offensive-line value. Cannon developed into a starter, earned a second contract and played on multiple Super Bowl teams. Landing a long-term lineman in addition to Ridley transformed a simple move down into an exceptional return.
What Houston Received From Harris
Harris did not become the long-term cornerback Houston envisioned. His playing time and impact with the Texans remained limited, and the club did not receive enough from him to offset two productive Patriots selections. The contrast is especially sharp because New England hit on both acquired picks.
Final Verdict
New England Patriots Win. Ridley's productive peak plus Cannon's longevity and championship-era role justify an A+. Houston receives a D because Harris failed to provide a durable starting return after the Texans paid two selections to move up.