Story by
Texans' Front Office Should Be Facing Major Scrutiny As Offseason Moves May Already Be Regretted
- Story by
- Texans' Front Office Should Be Facing Major Scrutiny As Offseason Moves May Already Be Regretted
The Houston Texans made it a priority this offseason to improve an offensive line that has been a major issue for the team in recent years. Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller were two of the biggest additions, with the expectation that both veterans would step into starting roles and provide some much-needed stability.
But after the Texans' second preseason game, that plan suddenly looks a little less clear.
Advertisement
ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime noted that both Smith and Teller came off the bench and played with Houston's second unit, something that could raise some uncomfortable questions about the team's offseason spending, "Leaving two free agent signees (right tackle Braden Smith and guard Wyatt Teller) running with the second unit. The Texans signed Smith to a two-year, $20 million deal and Teller to a two-year, $16 million contract, with the expectation that both would start and boost the team's frequently problematic offensive line. So how will Houston decide which linemen to start Week 1? And do the Texans want $36 million worth of offseason signings on their backup unit?"
That last part is especially important. Houston committed $36 million over two years to Smith and Teller because the offensive line needed legitimate upgrades. Neither player was signed to serve as an insurance policy or provide depth. The expectation was that they would immediately become important pieces of the starting five.
Instead, both are currently working with the second team as the Texans sort through their options. There is still plenty of time for that to change before Week 1. The preseason is also about evaluating different combinations, and the coaching staff has no reason to treat the second preseason game as a final indication of who will start when the regular season arrives.
Still, it is not an ideal look for the front office.
Advertisement
The Texans entered the offseason knowing their offensive line needed improvement, and Smith and Teller were supposed to be a major part of that solution. If both players ultimately fail to secure starting jobs, Houston could find itself looking at two significant investments sitting behind players who were already on the roster.
That would make the decision to spend $36 million on the duo look considerably worse.
The Texans have made it clear that they believe this roster is capable of competing at a high level in 2026. For that to happen, the offensive line has to become a strength rather than another concern.
Smith and Teller still have an opportunity to prove they belong in the starting lineup. But with Week 1 getting closer, the Texans need their two biggest offensive line additions to start looking like the upgrades they were signed to be.
