Houston moved up five spots in the 2022 third round,…
Houston moved up five spots in the 2022 third round, receiving pick No. 75 from Denver and selecting linebacker Christian Harris. The Broncos received Nos. 80 and 162, which became tight end Greg Dulcich and returner Montrell Washington. Harris developed into a regular starter on Houston's defense and contributed during the Texans' return to the playoffs, while Denver received only limited long-term value from its two selections.
Denver Broncos Received
- pick 2022 3rd round pick (80th overall, Greg Dulcich )
- pick 2022 5th round pick (162nd overall, Montrell Washington)
Houston Texans Received
- pick 2022 3rd round pick (75th overall, Christian Harris)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Houston traded picks No. 80 and No. 162 to Denver on April 29, 2022, moving up to No. 75. The Texans selected Alabama linebacker Christian Harris. Denver used No. 80 on UCLA tight end Greg Dulcich and No. 162 on return specialist Montrell Washington. The Broncos chose the classic trade-down route, gaining an extra prospect, while Houston concentrated its capital on a defender it valued for an immediate defensive role.
Why Houston Came Out Ahead
Harris developed into the most dependable player in the deal. He became a regular starter and important part of Houston's defense, including meaningful postseason snaps as the Texans returned to contention. His range and coverage ability gave Houston several seasons of linebacker value from the third-round investment. That sustained role is exactly what the Texans were buying when they moved up.
How Denver Fared
Dulcich showed legitimate receiving upside when healthy, but injuries and availability kept him from becoming a consistent long-term starter in Denver. Washington supplied return-game work but had a short stay with the Broncos. Two selections gave Denver more chances, yet neither produced the steady multi-season contribution Harris delivered for Houston.
Final Verdict
Houston earns a B and Denver a C-. The Broncos' trade-down logic was reasonable, and Dulcich had promising moments, but the realized value did not last. Harris became the durable starter in the transaction and contributed to meaningful winning football in Houston. The Texans' concentrated bet produced the stronger result over several seasons, supporting a Houston Texans Win.