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Texans' Offensive Line Woes Are Building an Urgent Case for Braden Smith's Return
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- Texans' Offensive Line Woes Are Building an Urgent Case for Braden Smith's Return
Through seven games, the Houston Texans have fallen to 2-5 after their 27-21 overtime loss to the New York Giants. Penalties, inconsistent run blocking and problems converting short-yardage situations continue to stall drives. The Houston Chronicle's postgame report gave the offensive line a "D" grade, highlighting the unit's struggles to "convert first downs on third-and-short, when all they needed were a few inches."
Quarterback C.J. Stroud has thrown for 1,867 yards and 11 touchdowns with just one interception through seven games. Despite his efficiency, Houston's offense has struggled to turn promising drives into wins. The Texans' offensive line must improve before its shortcomings cost the team more games.
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Evan Brown and Ed Ingram's Grades Expose the Texans' O-Line Problems
Jul 31, 2026; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans guard Ed Ingram (69) during training camp at Houston Methodist Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
PFF's latest figures show center Evan Brown with a 51.7 overall grade, ranking 30th among 35 qualified centers, while his run-blocking grade of 48.8 ranks 33rd. Ed Ingram's numbers are more troubling in pass protection; his 42.5 grade ranks 68th among 74 guards, despite an impressive 80.8 run-blocking grade.
GM Nick Caserio's revamped unit has yet to deliver consistent results. Trent Brown has been a relative bright spot, posting a 64.8 overall PFF grade and a 71.8 pass-blocking grade. However, his eight penalties and 17 pressures allowed show there is still room for improvement. His absence from practice on the Week 7 injury report also raised concerns about Houston's tackle depth. The Texans need better protection and cleaner execution across the line, not just occasional strong performances.
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Braden Smith's Return Could Be the Offensive Line Boost Houston Desperately Needs
Jun 9, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans offensive tackle Braden Smith arrives for the team's minicamp at Houston Methodist Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
The veteran OT arrived in Houston on a two-year deal after spending his first eight NFL seasons with Indianapolis, where he started 105 of 107 games. The Texans activated him from injured reserve on October 14 after he returned to practice and eventually played in Week 7 against the Giants.
With Trent Brown yielding mixed results, Houston cannot afford continued instability at tackle. Smith's experience gives Stroud more reliable protection and helps the offense find consistency. Smith played 25 snaps on Sunday, getting a 74.2 pass-blocking grade from PFF. Smith actually made zero sacks and hits while taking a penalty, so his performance is under scrutiny till the next game in Week 9.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
