Arizona traded reserve tackle Josh Jones and a 2024…
Arizona traded reserve tackle Josh Jones and a 2024 seventh-round pick to Houston for a 2024 fifth-round selection. The Cardinals used No. 162 on tackle Christian Jones, while Houston received immediate line depth from Josh Jones and retained the seventh-round asset. Neither side produced a major difference-maker from the exchange, but both accomplished a sensible roster goal at a modest price, keeping the trade essentially even.
Arizona Cardinals Received
- pick 2024 5th round pick (162nd overall, Christian Jones)
Houston Texans Received
- player Josh Jones
- pick 2024 7th round pick (224th overall, subsequently traded)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Arizona sent offensive tackle Josh Jones and a 2024 seventh-round pick to Houston for the Texans' 2024 fifth-round selection. The Cardinals had a surplus at tackle and Jones was entering the final year of his contract. Houston, meanwhile, needed experienced line depth because of injuries. The acquired fifth-rounder ultimately became No. 162, where Arizona selected Texas tackle Christian Jones. The seventh-rounder later landed at No. 224 and moved again.
Why Arizona Liked the Conversion
For the Cardinals, the attraction was turning a reserve on an expiring deal into better draft position. Moving from a seventh-round asset to a fifth-round selection created a meaningful jump in expected prospect quality without giving up a starter in Arizona's plans. Christian Jones became a developmental tackle on a rookie contract, giving the club additional runway from a player it otherwise might have lost after the season.
How Houston Got Immediate Utility
The Texans were buying present-day insurance. Josh Jones had starting experience at multiple tackle spots and joined a line dealing with injuries before the 2023 season. Houston also received the seventh-round component, reducing the net draft cost. The veteran did not become a long-term cornerstone for the Texans, but that was never a realistic expectation at this price. The deal was designed to trade some future selection value for immediate depth.
Final Verdict
Both teams receive C+ grades. Arizona improved its future draft position and eventually selected Christian Jones; Houston obtained experienced offensive-line help and a late pick for a manageable price. Neither return has produced enough high-end or long-term impact to create a decisive advantage. The transaction remains an Even Trade based on modest, different forms of value on each side.