Breaking down the Houston Texans’ offensive line in 2017
By Jair Lopez
Starting Offensive Guards:
Xavier Su-a’filo
Left Guard Xavier Su-a’filo is entering his fourth and final year with the Houston Texans. He has had a sub par career.
Su-a’filo had an impressive game against the New England Patriots in the playoffs last year.
Everyone knows of his potential coming out of UCLA, but injuries have kept Su-a’filo from being in good shape. He is clearly the best choice at left guard but has to prove he is the man moving forward.
Jeff Allen
Right guard Jeff Allen had a disappointing season with the Texans after leaving the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency in 2016.
Allen’s poor season left a bitter taste for fans after Brandon Brooks left for the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency.
Allen suffered various injuries throughout the season ranging from concussions to nagging ankle injuries.
He played in an entirely new offense in Houston and a new position at right guard. The four years he played in Kansas City, Allen played all over the offensive line but mostly at left guard.
Each position across the offensive line is different, and it is foolish to expect a player to learn a new position and a new offense in only one season. Expect an improved Jeff Allen in 2017.