The Houston Texans feel content with the status of their offensive line entering the new season, but upgrades could be made once C.J. Stroud is paid.
After this season, the Texans will make some tough calls in order to afford both defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and their Pro Bowl quarterback on extensions. That could lead to letting several offensive lineman walk in free agency or be outright released.
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When looking at the offensive line, Tay Ersery seems to be a lock to start for at least two seasons at left tackle. He’s earned the right to land with the first-team offense after allowing just one pressure in 30 snaps this preseason. As for Tytus Howard? A shift inside could happen next fall once more or with all of his garunteed money paid up, perhahps Houston parts ways with the 2019 first-round pick.
Laken Tomlinson, Ed Ingram and Jake Andrews will also be free agents, so a given their play this season could also change the direction of the draft if they recieve extension in the offseason.
In his 2026 mock draft, The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner predicts the Texans will continue to find ways to protect Stroud and have them land Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa at pick No. 21. Once again, Houston makes the playoffs, but fails to advance because of its offensive line.
“Another explosive athlete who moves and recovers well, it remains to be seen if Mauigoa is best long-term at tackle or guard,” Baumgardner wrote. “Either way, Houston could use him.”
Everything for offensive line play is based on the on-field execution this season. Should it look impressive, Houston could turn to adding in a young running back as a long-term investement to replace Pro Bowler Joe Mixon.
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If not, Mauigoa can play four positions at an All-American level. That should benefit anywhere on the trenches for a team capable of winning more than a division title.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: 2026 mock draft: Texans bolster trenches with Miami’s Francis Mauigoa