The Houston Texans allowed 54 sacks in 2024 despite having the highest payroll of offensive linemen.
Both the payroll and the starting five are expected to change to keep quarterback C.J. Stroud upright next year in what could be the most important season in franchise history.
“Getting better protection for C.J. is definitely a main point of emphasis for us,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said Tuesday at the NFL Combine. “We know when C.J. is protected (and) he has a clean pocket, he’s a pretty good quarterback.”
Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil isn’t losing his job after giving up one sack in 2024. Tytus Howard’s contract likely keeps him in the building for another year, though his position might switch in favor of rookie Blake Fisher.
The three other positions are up for grabs, though new offensive coordinator Nick Caley will have a say on how to fix the offensive line. Everyone seems to be on the same page after the Texans gave up eight sacks in the divisional round loss against the Kansas City Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium, which ultimately led to the firing of Chris Strausser and promotion of Cole Popovich.
“We can gain improvement,” Ryans said. “And that is ultimately why it came down to the decision to make the move because I feel like we can improve and can get better.”
The Texans have been linked to several linemen in the draft and will have an up-close and personal look to see what their potential is for a selection, but Houston isn’t limiting itself to just a rookie joining the club. Houston could target several names in free agency, though top-end options like Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith, Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dallman and Indianapolis Colts guard Will Fries could be out of range.
Pittsburgh Steelers guard James Daniels or Chicago Bears offensive lineman Teven Jenkins could make sense on a one-year deal, though it has to be the right price.
There is a certain criteria Ryans is looking for in terms of player, regardless of draft or free agency. To play in Houston, Ryans is looking for someone who can serve as a stable option in pass protection.
“I’m looking at pass protection, how good is a guy in pass protection,” Ryans said. “For me, speaking offensive linemen, I want to see that grit. I want to see that toughness, that nastiness of how guys are finishing their blocks, what type of leaders these guys are, how passionate they are about football.”