The biggest challenge for the Houston Texans this offseason is finding a way to shore up the offensive line. C.J. Stroud was under duress during the campaign and while Houston still won the AFC South, it's obvious that the roster isn't yet ready to compete with the elite teams in the NFL.
Despite having high-profile names like Laremy Tunsil, Tytus Howard, and Shaq Mason, the line was still a disaster. The Texans ranked 29th in opponent sacks per game (3.4), frequently putting the offense behind the sticks with negative plays.
On Wednesday, the Chicago Bears addressed a similar issue with a big trade for All-Pro guard Joe Thuney. It's the type of move that Houston needs to be aggressive about and fortunately for the front office, there's an obvious target in free agency who the Texans need to pursue.
The Bears lead the NFL in sacks… they’ve traded for two former Pro Bowlers (Thuney multiple All Pro seasons) they aren’t playing around… the team that finished 2nd was the Houston Texans, if I am a Texans fan, this is how I hope my front office would be moving https://t.co/ygaEEScR9z
— Ron Hughley (@RealRonTHESHOW) March 5, 2025
Texans Need to Pursue Pro Bowl Guard Kevin Zeitler
As pointed out by Ron Hughley of Sports Radio 610, the Texans' defense is ready to compete, having finished second behind the Bears in sacks. Offensive woes are the problem, and Detroit Lions Pro Bowler Kevin Zeitler could be a solution.
Zeitler ranked fifth out of 135 qualified guards at Pro Football Focus. He's a pending free agent and it'd behoove the Lions to keep him but if they're unwilling to meet his asking price or prefer to get younger at the position, Houston needs to take advantage.
Howard and Mason are paid well though neither has justified their respective contracts. They might be sunk costs at this point and would require some cap gymnastics from general manager Nick Caserio to get rid of, yet it may be worth it to upgrade with Zeitler.
He's 34 years old, so Houston could likely invest in a shorter deal with options tacked on at the end. If Zeitler falls out like Howard and Mason did, they could then cut bait without suffering much loss. That's a smarter structure than they've previously used and would offer some insurance.
Of course, Zeitler would have to be interested. At this stage in his career though, the Texans could pitch him as being the missing piece of a potential Super Bowl contender. The Chiefs look vulnerable - it's time for Houston to strike.
Whether it works or not, Caserio at least needs to try.