With five offensive line signings, including a former Pro Bowler, the Texans are quietly rebuilding for 2026, signaling a powerful new strategy.
The Houston Texans are making a strong statement in free agency. The Texans are coming for the AFC South division and more in 2026. The team is quietly doing so with offensive line additions.
Earlier in the offseason, we noted a recurring theme of the early going of free agency. Most of the loudest moves the Texans made revolved around adding or retaining key defensive players. If you were reactive, you noted the team traded away an impact offensive lineman and started to draw conclusions. But the Texans had a plan.
Since trading big time offensive tackle Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns, the Texans have now signed five offensive linemen for their 2026 squad. The latest is a former pro bowler, who used to play for the Cleveland Browns, Wyatt Teller.
Ben Strauss of Clutch Points reacted to the news.
"Teller was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Browns. Now he is the latest addition on a Houston offensive line that is in the middle of a massive overhaul.
Houston started their renovation project by trading away Tytus Howard to the Browns. They also sent away Juice Scruggs as part of the package used to acquire David Montgomery from the Lions.
The Texans also signed right tackle Braden Smith away from the Colts during free agency. Houston landed him at a relative bargain, signing him to a two-year deal worth $25 million.
Houston suddenly has a capable offensive line with depth at almost every single position."
Cleveland Browns guard Wyatt Teller (77) celebrates after running back Quinshon Judkins (10) scored a touchdown during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Huntington Bank Field. Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesIf there is something positive to be said of Teller and the Cleveland Browns' offensive line, it's that the unit produced a strong running game in 2025. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins broke out for 827 yards and seven touchdown runs in his initial Cleveland campaign.
The Texans would like to improve their own running game if their early moves are any indication. Aside from adding five linemen, the team traded for running back David Montgomery to improve their rushing threat. The hope is that the moves will translate to more ease running the football effectively. The Texans inched closer to an effective running game today.
Where the Texans go next in free agency is anyone's guess. Houston is nearing 20 contract additions for the offseason just over two weeks into March. The aggressive approach to free agency could pay off in the team's 2026 prospects.
Houston will look to put the finishing touches on its roster over the next couple of weeks.