Texans pick G Brandon Brooks in 3rd round

By CHRIS DUNCAN

HOUSTON (AP) The Houston Texans have filled another need, picking offensive lineman Brandon Brooks out of Miami, Ohio.

The 6-foot-4,353-pound Brooks started 41 of 45 games for the Redhawks and split time at guard and tackle.

Houston cut right tackle Eric Winston and lost right guard Mike Brisiel in free agency. Antoine Caldwell is tabbed as the new starter at right guard, and Rashad Butler is slated to take over Winston's role. Derek Newton, a seventh-round draft pick last year, will back up Butler.

Earlier in the third round, Houston picked Ohio State receiver DeVier Posey. The Texans were also looking for receiving help with five-time Pro Bowler Andre Johnson aging and no consistent threat behind him.

The Texans picked Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus in the first round.

Updated April 27, 2012