Despite bringing in veteran Braden Smith on a two-year deal to upgrade the offensive line, the Houston Texans’ latest depth chart still lists “Braden Smith OR Trent Brown” at right tackle, signaling an unexpected battle for a crucial position. This isn’t just a minor detail, it’s a huge question mark for an offense looking to solidify upfront.
Houston’s Right Tackle Riddle: Is the New Guy Already Facing Pressure?
The offensive line largely looks settled with Aireontae Ersery, Wyatt Teller, Ed Ingram, and Keylan Ruteldge projected as starters. But that right tackle spot? It’s where the drama is. We saw Smith taking most of the first-team reps, which you’d expect for a guy signed to a new deal. Yet, Brown, who started seven games at right tackle last year after coming off injured reserve, is still right there on the depth chart. Yeah, he wasn’t perfect, but he showed potential and brings a “real vet presence,” as Ersery put it, even joking he calls Brown “master sensei.”
The Texans clearly wanted an upgrade, hence being aggressive in landing Smith after eight seasons with the Colts, where he was a staple on their revamped offensive line. But here’s the kicker: Smith started 13 games at right tackle in 2025 before getting sidelined with an injury for the rest of the season. And before that? He’s missed at least two games every season over the past four years. That injury history is a shadow looming over this “OR” situation.
Defense: Steady Ship with Emerging Talent Ready to Make Noise
On the defensive side, it’s a completely different story. Zero changes to the projected starting roles. That’s consistency you love to see! But don’t sleep on the new talent. Second-round pick Kayden McDonald is already listed with the second-team defense and is expected to be a major factor in the rotation.
Even better, the nickel position hasn’t had legitimate depth like this since 2024. Behind Jalen Pitre, we’ve got Allijah Huzzie and Brandon Codrington both stepping up, ready to contribute. That’s a serious boost for a crucial defensive role, and it tells you they’re building something deep and sustainable.
All eyes are going to be on that joint practice against the Raiders this Tuesday, and then on Thursday’s game at 7 p.m. CT at Reliant Stadium, locally televised on ABC. How does Smith look? Does Brown make a statement? And how do these new defensive playmakers slot in? This week is huge for figuring out who’s truly ready to lock down a starting spot for the season. You gotta tune in.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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