Houston Texans positional breakdown: Offensive line

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

Left Guard: Xavier Su’a-Filo

It’s been a rough road thus for Xavier Su’a-Filo, the first pick in the second round of the 2014 draft.

Vitals
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 307 Pounds
Age: 25

During Su’a-Filo’s rookie season he struggled to earn the trust of the coaching staff. He appeared in 13 games, but only made one start, which is a far cry from what the team expected when passing on players such as quarterbacks Derek Carr and Jimmy Garoppolo.

Last season he struggled to stay healthy and ended up playing in less games (11) but had more starts (9).

As for 2016, it isn’t a lock that the former UCLA Bruin will start. He could be forced to compete with someone like Jeff Adams, who played well during his brief time starting at left guard.

Nov 15, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tackle Jeff Allen (71) during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Right Guard: Jeff Allen

After losing Jones and Brooks along the interior, the Texans were able to get some relief as they struck a deal with the former Kansas City Chiefs guard, Jeff Allen.

Vitals
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 306 Pounds
Age: 26

The team was really high on Allen, and they gave him a four-year deal worth $28 million, with a reported $14 million of that reportedly being paid out in year one of the contract. A second round pick by KC in 2012, the Illinois product has started 36 of his 44 games played

He has experience at both guard and tackle, but look for him to be clearing holes on the right side of the interior line for the next four seasons or more in Houston.

Jan 30, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad offensive guard Nick Martin of Notre Dame (72) in the second half of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

Center: Nick Martin

The second round selection this season for the Texans was used to acquire Notre Dame center Nick Martin, and it looks as though the former Fighting Irish lineman will start from day one.

Vitals
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 299 Pounds
Age: 22

He is the younger brother of Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl guard Zack Martin, and was even a starter with his brother during the 2013 season, until a knee injury cut his campaign short.

Martin returned to the line and was a starter in every game at either center or guard the next two seasons. The former team captain had great awareness and is tenacious.

Although versatile enough to play guard or center, Martin looks to be the guy snapping the ball when the 2016 season gets underway.

Next: The main reserves

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