The Houston Texans have three potential starting vacancies remaining on the offensive line after re-signing right guard Ed Ingram to a three-year, $37.5 million contract. Houston will look to upgrade the left guard and center position while figuring out where Aireontae Ersery will line up in 2026 after starting 17 games at left tackle. Once the Texans make their decision on Ersery, the other tackle spot is the final area of focus in the offseason, since Trent Brown was retained to be the swing tackle.
Also Read: Houston Texans: Retain 2025’s Pleasant Surprise
Houston Texans land a 29-year-old blocker
Houston Texans, Nick Caserio
Dec 15, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio walks on the field before the game against the Miami Dolphins at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
According to Adam Schefter, the Texans are set to sign former Colts tackle Braden Smith to a two-year, $25 million contract with $13.5 million fully guaranteed. He has predominantly played right tackle in the NFL but has some experience at guard, logging over 2,000 snaps at right guard at Auburn, making him a potential fit at left guard. If Smith remains at right tackle, Aireontae Ersery likely stays put at left tackle, regardless. This news comes as the front office was reportedly interested in signing him.
Former Colts OT Braden Smith reached agreement with the Houston Texans on a two-year, $25 million deal including $13.5 million fully guaranteed, per his agent Michael Perrett of Priority Sports. pic.twitter.com/CglEBaPneZ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 10, 2026
Here’s a quick review of his 2025 campaign
Indianapolis Colts, Braden Smith
Nov 23, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle Braden Smith (72) on field against the Kansas City Chiefs during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Braden Smith decided to return in 2025 after contemplating retirement while dealing with OCD and religious scrupulosity, which kept him out of the final five games of 2024. He had a solid eighth season, allowing 26 pressures, 19 hurries, six quarterback hits, and one sack across 13 starts. Smith missed the final four games due to a neck injury and a concussion.