Offensive Line Struggles During 2024 Season
The Houston Texans’ offensive line was a major liability during the 2024 season. Quarterback C.J. Stroud faced constant pressure and the run game lacked consistent holes, ultimately sinking the team’s chances. These issues spurred a major offseason overhaul.
Laken Tomlinson Brings Optimism
One of the most notable additions this offseason was 11-year veteran guard Laken Tomlinson, who signed a one-year, $4.25 million contract. Tomlinson believes a solid offensive line can play a crucial role in a team’s success.
“I believe offensive line could be the strength of a team,” Tomlinson told Texans Radio in an interview posted last week. “Those guys come out, they’re grinders, man. They want to be the backbone, the foundation of the team. So when you can have that for a team, you can go very far, man. I’ve seen in the past, I’ve been a part of it, and I’m excited to be able to exercise that here.”
Tomlinson wasn’t predicting success for the Texans’ line specifically but emphasized the general importance of a cohesive and effective offensive line in the NFL. The recent triumphs of teams like the Philadelphia Eagles highlight how vital strong line play can be.
Major Personnel Changes on the Line
In response to their struggles, Houston made several bold moves. They traded away Laremy Tunsil and former first-round pick Kenyon Green, and released veteran Shaq Mason. In their place, the Texans brought in Tomlinson, Cam Robinson, Ed Ingram, Trent Brown, and drafted Aireontae Ersery in the second round.
The team hopes this influx of talent will yield a combination of five linemen who can form a cohesive and reliable unit. However, none of the new arrivals are guaranteed difference-makers. Tomlinson has been consistently available though average in performance; Robinson played well last season but is prone to penalties; Ingram underperformed in Minnesota; and Brown has been inconsistent throughout his career.
Building Chemistry Is Key
A critical factor in the potential success of the rebuilt line is chemistry. Proven offensive line groups often benefit from time spent developing familiarity and trust. “When you have those five guys out there, they’ve got to be able to operate as a unit, so the more exposure you have around the guys, it’s just better for the offensive line and the team,” Tomlinson noted.
That need for cohesion is why it’s crucial for the Texans to determine their starting offensive line early in training camp, giving them time to gel and build momentum before the regular season begins.
