Everything starts in the trenches, and the Houston Texans made several moves to bolster the offensive line in the offseason. The starting five up front will be almost completely different than it was in 2025, but it's probably for the better.
In April's draft, the Texans selected guard Keylan Rutledge out of Georgia Tech at No. 26 overall. Rutledge is already the best at his position, and he is expected to help immidiately. Houston also made moves to sign OTs Braden Smith and Nate Thomas, along with guard Wyatt Teller. The Texans resigned Ed Ingram (guard) and Trent Brown (tackle) as well.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans opened up on the upgraded line.
The Texans' new offensive line could be the key to get them over the hump
The group expected to start for week one is: Aireontae Ersery (LT), Rutledge (LG), Evan Brown (C), Ingram (RG) and Trent Brown (RT). Ryans said they already have chemistry.
"Our offensive line has gelled really well together," Ryans said. "Throughout camp, that's where you try to find the best five guys, and you want those guys to start working together as soon as possible. We were able to solidify a group, and those guys have been doing a great job of communicating (and) working well together, and we'll see how that continues to progress."
Trent Brown (33) is the only lineman in the starting five older than 29. The Texans have a young team in general, and if they can establish a youthful and productive offensive line, it could be a problem for the rest of the league. Ryans said the group has shown they have what it takes.
"I'm really excited for them and to see where they'll go this season and how they'll continue to grow as a group," Ryans said. "We got some young guys in there. (Ersery) is still a young guy, (Ingram) is young, so, some young guys in there along with Rutledge that are still finding their way, but they're doing a really good job of communicating and working together. That's what offensive line is about; (If) you play together, play with good fundamentals and good technique, you have a chance, and they've done that."
Evan Brown is traditionally a guard, but he's had some experience at center throughout his career. Luckily for the Texans, he seems to be getting acclimated quickly.
"What stood out for me is how smart he is and how he's picked up on things we've asked him to do," Ryans said of Brown. "He's a loud communicator. He takes charge up front, (and) that's what you need from that center position. He's done a really good job of taking charge, and that's what set him apart for me."
The new offensive line should help the Texans take a step forward as an offense. Quarterback CJ Stroud needs it to happen more than anyone, as he is entering a contract year after regressing for two straight seasons. The Buffalo Bills await around the corner, so we won't have to wonder much longer.
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