Texans must bolster offensive line in advance of drafting quarterback

The Houston Texans have work to do in shoring up their offensive line before they can realistically expect a young quarterback to find developmental success with the organization, regardless of whether they end up taking Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud or a surprise name like Anthony Richardson.

That in mind, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC Houston, the organization is expected to take a hard, hard look at their offensive line options in free agency and beyond.

Their biggest focus to start with figures to be star left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The three-time Pro Bowler reportedly wants to be awarded a contract which makes him the NFL’s highest-paid tackle. Tunsil signed a three-year, $66 million deal with Houston in 2019. 

The 6-foot-5 veteran is an elite pass-protector and allowed just one sack during the 2022 season, this on a team which saw Davis Mills taken down 31 times via sack during the past campaign.

Right tackle Tytus Howard also needs to be paid. Howard, who gave up three sacks last season, believes he has done enough to earn a long-term deal moving forward. For now, he is expected to earn $13.2 million under a fifth-year club option for the coming season. 

Looking closer at the state of Houston’s offensive line, guards A.J Cann and Kenyon Green are both locked into contracts through at least 2024, while on Wednesday, the team re-signed center Scott Quessenberry to a one-year deal. He started all 17 games last season.

Having won a combined 11 games over the last three seasons, Houston’s roster is not one player away from contention. Building a solid foundation on the line would be a great place to start. While the team will almost certainly select a quarterback near the top of the draft, it would not be a surprise to see Houston focus on padding out their o-line depth on Day 2 and Day 3 upcoming.