Breaking down the Houston Texans’ offensive line in 2017
By Jair Lopez
On July 25th the Texans will officially be kicking off training camp in West Virginia and It will give their coaches a closer look at their offensive line.
The Houston Texans’ offensive line will finally put on pads and be able to show who has the ability to make the final roster.
There are new and familiar faces coming into camp this season. And some have more to prove than others.
Projected Starting Offensive Tackles:
Duane Brown
Starting left tackle Duane Brown will definitely be suited up and ready to go when the season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars kicks off in September. There is very little doubt he’ll skip training camp despite his concerns over his contract. He is a leader in the locker room and by far the best player on their offensive line.
Brown remains a top-ten left tackle and proved that the quad injury he suffered was nothing more than a small obstacle in his successful career.
Chris Clark
Acquired as depth at left tackle in 2015, Chris Clark has had his ups and downs while starting at right tackle.
Clark is a better fit at left tackle, but he is the better option at right tackle after Derek Newton suffered torn patella tendons in both knees last season.
Clark turned some heads when he kept disruptive Oakland Raiders pass rusher Khalil Mack in check during the playoffs last season. But overall he had a disappointing season with the Texans in 2016.
Clark has struggled as a run blocker in the past but knowing he’s entering the final year in his current contract might motivate him.
It is difficult to put the blame solely on Clark since making the transition from left to right tackle isn’t easy. There is different footwork and techniques for each position.
Clark is entering his third season in the Texans’ offense and knows what is expected from the coaching staff.