Texans Snag Mapu from Patriots

0:00It's April 7. You're listening to NFL News today, AI-powered football coverage. I'm Cory with the story. The Houston Texans just pulled off a slick pre-draft move, snagging linebacker Marta Mapu from the New England Patriots. In the deal, the Pat's ship over Mapu plus their 2027 seventh round pick in exchange for Houston's 2026 sixth rounder. Mapu, a 26-year-old former third-round pick from 2023, was on the verge of getting cut by New England. Mapu spent three years as a backup linebacker, and sometimes safety for the Pat's. Flashing speed out of Sacramento State, but battling injuries that kept him from starting much. He suited up for 44 games with 10 starts, racking of 89 tackles, 3 picks, and 5 force fumbles. Fans are buzzing about this low-risk grab, especially with Christian Harris now off to Atlanta. Mapu's real shine came on special teams last year, where he played nearly 60 percent of snaps, made 13 tackles, and blocked zero punts as.

1:04Personal protector perfect timing, with the Texans bringing in new punter, Kai Kroger, to replace Tommy Townsend. Deeper dive shows Mapu's 80.4 defensive grade on limited snaps in 2025, hinting at upside as a depth guy on defense if he stays healthy. At 6.3 and 230 pounds, his athleticism could click in Houston's scheme. This trade screams smart depths shopping by Nick Casserio veteran special teamer, locked in sheep, with bonus potential on D-Tex and stay stacked heading, into the draft.