A big offseason focus for the Houston Texans has been shoring up the offensive line following a year in which the team was fourth-worst in the league for sacks allowed with 54.
After bolstering their passing offense by selecting wide receiver Jayden Higgins with the No. 34 pick, the team filled another key hole with offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery in the second round, potentially aiding in stifling the large number of sacks the team's quarterbacks endured last year.
Texans' star defensive end Will Anderson Jr. spoke to the media after the team's first day of organized team activities (OTAs) Wednesday, sharing his first impression of Ersery and what he is already bringing to the team.
Houston Texans offensive tackle celebrates a touchdown with the Minnesota Golden Gophers in October of 2024.
Houston Texans offensive tackle celebrates a touchdown with the Minnesota Golden Gophers in October of 2024.
Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
"He's a large human being, man," Anderson said. "I think he's going to be really good for us."
Standing at 6-foot-6, 330 pounds, Ersery will be a - literal - big addition for the team's offensive line, weighing in as the third-heaviest offensive tackle on the roster.
"I'm happy he's here," said Anderson. "Seeing him out there today going against our guys, he's very athletic and can move for a big guy his size. I'm excited to see what he does."
Ersery, a Kansas City, Missouri native, is already getting work in with the team's starters at both left and right tackle, with head coach DeMeco Ryans mixing and matching to try and 'find the best five' linemen.
Ersery spent three years starting at left tackle for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, including 38 consecutive games played to finish his college career, but can also play the right side. His versatility and durability are certainly factors that make it tough for Ryans to leave off the starting five.