Texans Linked as Perfect Fit for Top Free Agent OL

ESPN's Matt Bowen suggests Braden Smith could be an ideal target for Houston to upgrade their offensive line.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 3:31pm

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The Houston Texans are in need of offensive line help this offseason, and ESPN's Matt Bowen believes Indianapolis Colts free agent tackle Braden Smith could be the perfect fit. Smith, a durable run blocker who also excels in pass protection, would provide an upgrade over the Texans' previous right tackle Trent Brown. While Smith's injury history is a concern, he could be a worthwhile investment for the Texans as they look to improve the offensive line in front of quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Why it matters

Upgrading the offensive line is a top priority for the Texans this offseason as they look to provide better protection for young quarterback C.J. Stroud. Signing a proven talent like Braden Smith away from a division rival in the Colts would be a significant move to bolster the trenches.

The details

Smith, 29, is coming off a 2025 season where he started 13 games at right tackle for the Colts, earning a 65.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. His pass blocking was a strength, grading at 71.9. The Texans could view Smith as an upgrade over their previous right tackle, the injury-prone Trent Brown. While Smith has durability concerns of his own, having not played a full 16-game season since 2022, he could still be an attractive free agent target for the Texans if the price is right.

  • Braden Smith is set to become a free agent when the new league year begins on March 13, 2026.
  • The Texans will have to make a decision on whether to pursue Smith prior to the start of free agency.

The players

Braden Smith

A 29-year-old offensive tackle who has spent his entire 8-year career with the Indianapolis Colts.

C.J. Stroud

The Texans' young starting quarterback who the team is looking to provide better protection for.

Trent Brown

The Texans' previous starting right tackle who struggled with injuries in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Elevating the offensive line in front of quarterback C.J. Stroud must be a priority for the Texans, and Smith would be an upgrade over free agent right tackle Trent Brown.”

— Matt Bowen, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Texans will need to evaluate Smith's injury history and determine if he is worth pursuing as a free agent to upgrade their offensive line.

The takeaway

The Texans' offensive line play has been a weakness, and signing a proven talent like Braden Smith away from a division rival could be a significant move to improve protection for young quarterback C.J. Stroud. However, Smith's own injury history is a concern that the Texans will have to weigh as they consider their options in free agency.