As has been the case for the last--well, for almost their entire 25-year history to be honest--the Houston Texans have been searching for effective continuity across their offensive line combinations. Most recently, they brought in a bevy of free agent additions (Braden Smith, Wyatt Teller, Evan Brown), as well as drafting multiple protectors in 2026 (Keylan Rutledge, Febechi Nwaiwu).
The idea was to completely revamp the unit after the trade-induced departures of franchise fixtures in tackle Laremy Tunsil and tackle/guard Tytus Howard within the last couple of seasons. However, the early returns on a brand new season haven't been too reassuring. Specifically, there are two offensive linemen in particular who could be playing for their jobs heading into Sunday's "must-win" matchup against a fellow AFC South competitor in the Indianapolis Colts.
The Houston Texans have two offensive linemen who are playing for their jobs in week three
Wyatt Teller, right guard
Former Cleveland Browns two-time All-Pro Wyatt Teller originally joined the Texans on a two-year, $23 million max contract to presumably be a starting interior protector for the forseeable future. Unfortunately, Teller was beat out by a combination of returning starter Ed Ingram (re-signed), rookie interior offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge (who's most natural position was that of a guard) and a hole at center due to the inconsistent performances of former starter Jake Andrews (filled by Evan Brown, a free agent addition).
However, due to a groin injury to Ingram before last week's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Teller was thrust back into the lineup to help protect quarterback C.J. Stroud and the offense. In said performance, Teller had a pass-blocking grade of 60.7, which ranked 44th among 69 qualified offensive guards, and a run-blocking grade of 70.6 ranked, which ranked 16th at the position. Across 80 snaps played, Teller allowed three pressures, zero sacks, zero quarterback hits and was rung up for one penalty (all stats according to Pro Football Focus).
In what appears to be his second week of work, Teller is faced with an opportunity to cement himself as a possible starting option even if Ingram gets healthy within the next week. With a poor performance, Teller most likely will be both relegated back to the bench and regarded as yet another failed offensive line option on the resume of general manager Nick Caserio.
Trent Brown, right tackle
Through the first two games of the 2026 NFL season, Trent Brown has seen his stock go down amongst fans and local media in response to what's been some uneven blocking results against both the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals. According to Pro Football Focus, Brown has earned a 51.3 overall grade in the 2026 season, 57th among 66 qualified offensive tackles. He's played 160 offensive snaps on the season.
His pass-blocking grade of 65.9 has him ranked 39th among 66 qualified offensive tackles and his run-blocking grade of 47.1 has him ranked 60th at the position. He's allowed 8 total pressures in pass protection, while also allowing one sack and one quarterback hit allowed to opposing pass rushers. He's also been flagged for four penalties over the course of the season.
As a result of his play, many in the fan base are looking at swing tackle Blake Fisher as a possible option for consideration if things worsen at all. Then, Houston also has the services of Braden Smith if they need a third option (currently on Injured Reserve).
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