Veteran Offensive Tackle Braden Smith Signs with Texans

Two-year, $20 million deal brings former Colts starter to Houston

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Veteran right tackle Braden Smith has agreed to a two-year, $20 million free-agent deal with the Houston Texans, according to league sources. Smith has been the Indianapolis Colts' starting right tackle since being drafted in the second round in 2018, and is considered one of the top pass blockers in the NFL due to his outstanding technique and fundamentals.

Why it matters

The Texans have struggled to solidify their offensive line in recent years, so the addition of an experienced and talented tackle like Braden Smith should provide a significant boost to their pass protection and running game. Smith's move also marks the end of his tenure with the Colts, who are transitioning to a younger right tackle in Jalen Travis.

The details

Smith, who turns 30 later this month, has not played more than 13 games in a season since 2022 due to various injuries, including a neck injury and concussion that caused him to miss the final four games of last season. However, Colts GM Chris Ballard said Smith is 'doing well' and can still play at a high level. Smith did also miss the final five games of the 2024 season for personal reasons related to religious scrupulosity, a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder, though he was eventually able to get an official diagnosis and treatment.

  • Smith was drafted by the Colts in the second round in 2018.
  • He signed a four-year, $70 million contract extension with the Colts in July 2021.
  • Smith missed the final four games of the 2025 season due to a neck injury and concussion.
  • He missed the final five games of the 2024 season for personal reasons related to religious scrupulosity.
  • Smith agreed to the two-year, $20 million deal with the Texans on March 10, 2026.

The players

Braden Smith

A veteran offensive tackle who has been the Indianapolis Colts' starting right tackle since being drafted in the second round in 2018. He is considered one of the top pass blockers in the NFL.

Jalen Travis

The Colts' 2025 fourth-round pick who is poised to take over as the team's starting right tackle after Smith's departure.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, who stated that Smith is 'doing well' and can still play at a high level despite his recent injury history.

Houston Texans

The NFL team that has signed Braden Smith to a two-year, $20 million free-agent deal, bolstering their offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Smith is considered one of the top pass blockers in the NFL thanks to his 'outstanding posture, balance and leverage.'”

— Daniel Popper, The Athletic (The Athletic)

“Smith is 'doing well' and can still play at a high level.”

— Chris Ballard, Indianapolis Colts General Manager (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Texans will look to integrate Smith into their offensive line as they aim to improve their pass protection and running game for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Texans' signing of veteran offensive tackle Braden Smith represents a significant upgrade to their offensive line, as they acquire a proven pass blocker who should provide stability and experience to their unit. However, Smith's recent injury history and personal issues will be something to monitor as he looks to bounce back and regain his top form in Houston.