The Houston Texans are thinking of the postseason, but change is needed on the offensive line if the AFC South leaders plan on winning a Super Bowl.
After Kenyon Green suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 9’s 21-13 loss against the New York Jets, conversations began on the future of the left guard spot. Juice Scruggs was serviceable in a Week 10 loss against the Detroit Lions, but the former second-round pick is better suited to play center.
The same goes for Jarrett Patterson, who likely will remain the starting center moving forward into Week 11’s matchup on Monday against the Dallas Cowboys.
Interior offensive linemen usually fall in the draft, given their value compared to tackles. Barring a trade of four-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil, Houston should be content with its book ends.
Either second-round pick Blake Fisher or veteran Tytus Howard should take over at right tackle in 2025.
Howard, who inked a three-year extension before the 2023 season, could also shift inside to guard, leaving a hole at right guard in place of the struggling Shaq Mason. Houston could part ways with the veteran lineman since he’ll be paid up on all his guaranteed money from the extension signed in 2023.
If the Texans target a lineman in the draft, defensive tackle, safety, and receiver could all be options in the first round.
Here’s a look at where the Texans are listed after the Week 9 loss and the full draft order projection from Talkathon:
- Round 1, No. 20 overall
- Round 2, No. 54 overall
- Round 3, No. 85 overall
- Round 4, No. 121 overall
- Round 5, No. 166 overall (via BUF)
- Round 7, No. 235 overall
All those numbers could improve if the Texans can respond on primetime against the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium later this week. Houston remains the favorite to win the AFC South and could be in line for the No. 3 if they finish with the same record as the Buffalo Bills or Baltimore Ravens, given their head-to-head wins.
Houston should look better on offense with the return of receiver Nico Collins, who is expected to play this week after being activated off the injured reserve last weekend. The Texans could be without pass-rusher and Defensive Player of the Year candidate Will Anderson Jr., who left in the first half with an ankle injury against the Jets.
Kickoff from AT&T Stadium is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. CT. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN.
