Prospects to look for at East-West Shrine Game

NFL talent evaluators descend on sunny Orlando, Florida this week for the 86th Shrine Game. This game typically showcases players either not invited to the Senior Bowl or those from smaller schools looking for an extra bump in exposure. The Texans have a distinct advantage for this game, as newly minted defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is the coach for the West squad against former Texans advisor Dan Reeves. Phillips was named coach of the team after being fired by Dallas.

While the talent for this game isn't as blue-chip as you will see later in the pre-draft process, there have been several participants have gone onto Hall of Fame careers and others productive stints themselves.

A look at some players the Texans could be more than interested in:

Offense:
Quarterback - The Texans could release Dan Orlovsky and would likely sign a more experienced backup for Matt Schaub. They could also use the draft to find a long range backup and/or starter.

Nathan Enderle (West/Idaho)
Patrick Devlin (East/Delaware)

Defense:

Defensive Tackle - Wade Phillips and Bill Kollar will still look for depth even if the defensive tackle position is filled via free agency or trade before the draft. Marvin Austin is listed because he does not fit as a 4-3 nose.

Terrell McClain (East/South Florida)
Brandon Bair (West/Oregon)
David Carter (West/UCLA)
Ted Laurent (West/Mississippi)
Ian Williams (West/Notre Dame)

Cornerback - One starter will be targeted in free agency and another one could be had on the first day of the draft or trade. None of the players here likely project as rookie starters, but one of more could provide solid depth.

Demarcus Van Dyke (East/Miami)
Cortez Allen (West/Citadel)
Korey Lindsey (West/Southern Illinois)
Darrin Walls (West/Notre Dame)

Safety - Bernard Pollard would be better off having a free safety that could handle more of the pass coverage duties. It would allow him to play more of his "box" position and support the line of scrimmage. But Wade Phillips and Vance Joseph might decide to clean house at safety altogether.

Brian Lainhart (East/Kent State)