The Houston Texans entered this offseason with the clear goal of addressing significant deficiencies in their offensive line. This unit had struggled to provide the necessary protection for their quarterbacks and to create effective opportunities for their running game, prompting the franchise to make substantial changes. As part of these adjustments, the Texans decided to part ways with three key members of their line, including Laremy Tunsil, their standout tackle who had been a cornerstone of their protection scheme. This decision underscored the magnitude of their rebuilding effort but also raised questions about their ability to replace such a vital player.
To begin addressing the issue, Houston signed Cam Robinson, a capable tackle who brings experience and skill to the table. However, it is evident that Robinson alone cannot fill all the gaps left by the departures, especially considering the loss of a player as impactful as Tunsil. Recognizing this, the Texans will likely lean heavily on the upcoming NFL Draft to secure young talent that can help reinforce their offensive line for the future.
In the meantime, Mark Stolte of Pro Football Network has suggested that Houston explore the free-agent market to supplement their roster. One option he identified is Joseph Noteboom, a former tackle for the Los Angeles Rams who offers a mix of affordability and proven ability. While Noteboom may not rank among the elite tackles in the league, Stolte notes that he outperformed veteran Tyron Smith last season and could represent an upgrade over Houston's current starter, Blake Fisher.
Noteboom has spent the bulk of his eight-year career with the Rams, where he showcased versatility by alternating between the tackle and guard positions. Primarily deployed as a tackle, he played an integral role in Los Angeles' offensive line and contributed to their Super Bowl victory during the 2021-22 season. However, his most recent campaign was marred by injury, as an ankle issue limited him to just four starts. Despite this setback, Noteboom demonstrated solid run-blocking prowess, achieving a respectable 70.6 grade in this area from Pro Football Focus.
While signing Noteboom would not entirely resolve the Texans' offensive line challenges, his addition could provide valuable veteran depth to a unit that is currently in flux. This move would offer Houston some much-needed stability as they navigate their ongoing rebuild and prepare for the draft, which will be critical in addressing their remaining needs. The Texans must approach these decisions strategically to ensure they assemble a cohesive and capable offensive line capable of supporting their broader aspirations as a team.
