Houston Texans Positional Breakdown: Offensive Line

Nov 2, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans guard Xavier Su

Xavier Su’a-Filo, Left Guard, 6’4″ 307 Pounds, 24 Years Old

The one new starter being plugged in on the offensive line is the second-year player out of UCLA, Xavier Su’a-Filo. After a rookie year where he had only one start and barely saw the field, this may be the biggest question mark along the line.

Some Background Info;

Projected by many to be a first round selection, and one of the top guards in the 2014 NFL Draft, Su’a-Filo was taken with the first selection of the second round last season and spent most of the year on the bench.

Head coach Bill O’Brien discussed last October how much of a challenge it has been on the former Bruin, but also offered some positive words about his work ethic and future in the NFL.

"“I think it is very difficult for a rookie to play on the inside. I think you see some rookies being able to do that. Other guys, it’s kind of some good, some not so good. I think Xavier falls into that category. He is a great kid. He’s a hard worker. He’s got a really good future in this league. He just needs to learn a little bit more about the tricks of the trade. We’ll continue to play him, give him a shot in there, but hopefully he learns from some of his mistakes, and he will.”"

What To Expect This Year;

Su’a-Filo is the starter at this point and there really isn’t anyone on the team to challenge him, so expect to see him lined up next to Duane Brown during the 2015 season. He most likely will struggle, considering he had as close to a redshirt year as possible during his rookie campaign.

I do believe as he gets accustomed to his role and the speed of the game that he will become a good starter for the Texans as they look to continue their solid offensive line performances.

Sep 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans guard Brandon Brooks (79) during a game against the Buffalo Bills at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon Brooks, Right Guard, 6’5″ 335Pounds, 25 Years Old

Brandon Brooks will line up at the right guard for the Texans in 2015 as he did for 15 starts in each of the last two seasons.

Some Background Info;

Picked in round three after not being invited to the combine, Brooks developed quickly like right tackle Newton did, becoming a starter in only his second season. The Miami of Ohio product held off the high draft pick Su’a-Filo in 2014, and started every game he was healthy in.

What To Expect This Year;

Brooks should once again have no problems being a serviceable starter for the Texans and if history is any indicator the largest member of the line should start 15 games for the team, although I am sure they would prefer 16.

Next: The Man In The Middle