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Aireontae Ersery Earns Praise for Edge Blocking as Ryans Pushes the OT For Relentless Finish
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- Aireontae Ersery Earns Praise for Edge Blocking as Ryans Pushes the OT For Relentless Finish
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has acknowledged the good work of tackle Aireontae Ersery in protecting the edge. However, the rookie offensive tackle needs to bring more energy and consistency to his performances. Ryans' comments suggest that the coaching staff sees potential in Ersery but expects more from him during the second half of the season.
"Tae has done some good things for us, protected on the edge," Ryans said
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"One challenge for Tae is to continue to play with that relentless motor, that relentless finish. Can we see more of that going into the second half of the season? That's the challenge that we presented to him, and I know he'll do it. He's capable, very capable of doing that. Just wanna see it show up even more."
Ersery has recorded a 57.8 overall PFF grade, ranking 57th among 69 qualified offensive tackles . His 66.7 pass-blocking grade ranks 42nd, suggesting he has shown some ability to keep pressure away from C.J. Stroud. He has played 459 offensive snaps and allowed 22 pressures, including four sacks and three quarterback hits.
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Ersery's 46.3 run-blocking grade ranks 66th among qualified tackles. He has also committed eight penalties, a costly number for a team already struggling with discipline and offensive execution.
Keylan Rutledge's Rookie Struggles Put More Pressure on C.J. Stroud's Protection
Keylan Rutledge has endured a challenging rookie campaign. His 43.4 overall PFF grade ranks seventh among seven evaluated rookie guards. His 34.1 pass-blocking grade and 51.5 run-blocking grade highlight the areas where he needs significant improvement. He has allowed 21 pressures, including two sacks, and committed two penalties in 459 offensive snaps.
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Houston cannot expect C.J. Stroud to carry the offense every week. The quarterback has shown promise, but recurring pressure from the interior makes it difficult to maintain consistent drives. Ersery's improvement on the edge will help, but Rutledge and the interior line must also step up.
Could Houston look for offensive line help before the trade deadline? The November 10 deadline gives general manager Nick Caserio an opportunity to explore potential reinforcements. Quenton Nelson has been mentioned as a possible trade target in outside speculation.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
