The Houston Texans need stability on their offensive line entering a make-or-break season for quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Could a former All-Pro be an option now on the open market?
According to KPRC 2 Sports’ Aaron Wilson, the Texans and Cleveland Browns starting right guard Wyatt Teller have mutual interest in potentially working out a deal when free agency begins next week. Teller announced last month that he would not be returning in 2026 as the team begins to overhaul its offense under new coach Todd Monken, thus testing free agency for the first time in his career.
The 31-year-old was durable during his time in Cleveland, starting in 94 games while earning three Pro Bowl nods, along with three All-Pro accolades. But by the middle of last season, Cleveland began rotating with Teven Jenkins before eventually missing time due to an injury and lack of consistency.
Last season marked a career-low for Teller, who ranked 57th out of 65 qualifying guards in pass-block win rate metric and 40th out of 62 guards in run-block win rate, according to ESPN’s Stats and Info. He’s still expected to compete for starting reps, but his best day could be behind him.
Houston needs stability on the offensive line, with potentially breakout star Ed Ingram hitting the market. Much like Teller, Ingram was a rejuvination project, having struggled to remain in the starting lineup with the Minnesota Vikings before being shipped over to Houston this offseason. One year with Houston and Ingram graded out as a top 12 interior linemen in run blocking and a top 20 player among all interior options.
Teller, who began his career in Buffalo before basically being an Ingram-type clone, has always been known for exceptional run-blocking skills, which could immediately be viewed as a requirement in finding free agents for a lackluster rushing attack last season. He’s still a decent pass blocker, but establishing the run is a priority for Houston to attack.
The Texans could still bring back Ingram on a short-term deal if free agency doesn’t bode in his favor. Houston plans on adding at least four new linemen, especially following the trade of do-it-all lineman Tytus Howard to Cleveland earlier this week for a fifth-round pick.
Would Houston ship the veteran lineman back to right tackle full-time? Could he be a trade piece for the right price?
According to Spotrac’s estimated market value, Teller should command a price of around $10.2 million per year in annual salary. He’s not the only name available, but general manager Nick Caserio can’t afford to at least consider reaching out to Teller’s camp.
The Texans also have seven picks in the upcoming draft, including four in the top 70.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Report: Former Browns OL Wyatt Teller has ‘interest’ in joining Texans
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
