Houston Texans’ Pursuit of Armand Membou to Safeguard Quarterback CJ Stroud in the 2025 NFL Draft
As the Houston Texans wrap up their 2024-25 season, a glaring concern looms large—protecting their quarterback, CJ Stroud, who faced a relentless barrage of sacks, notably in their divisional round clash with the Kansas City Chiefs. The urgent need for reinforcement in the offensive line has become crystal clear, with Stroud enduring a total of eight sacks in that pivotal game and 52 throughout the regular season, trailing only behind the Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams in this disheartening statistic.
Armand Membou: A Rising Star Lineman
Amidst this pressing dilemma, a shining beacon of hope emerges in the form of Armand Membou, the standout offensive lineman from Missouri who has captured the attention and admiration of draft analysts far and wide. Membou’s exceptional performance throughout the 2024 college football season has propelled him to the top of many draft boards, his name echoing across stadiums as a symbol of unwavering skill and reliability.
In a remarkable display of prowess, Membou guarded his territory with unwavering tenacity, not conceding a single sack in his 410 pass-blocking snaps. Supported by an impressive 85.4 pass-blocking grade, as per PFF, Membou’s resolute presence on the field has solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
A Crucial Addition to the Texans’ Lineup
As the Texans recalibrate their strategies for the upcoming season, the significance of Membou’s potential cannot be overstated. While Tytus Howard valiantly held the right tackle position for much of the 2024 campaign before transitioning to right guard in Week 15, the need for a steadfast guardian on the frontline remains paramount. Blake Fischer, the former second-round pick, assumed the right tackle mantle, yet the team’s aspirations hinge on fortifying their offensive line in the imminent draft.
Membou’s proficiency as a tackle at Missouri, coupled with his fluid footwork and impeccable pass protection skills, offers the Texans a versatile asset capable of adapting to various positions along the offensive line. Furthermore, his youthfulness at 20 years of age stands in stark contrast to the veteran status of star left tackle Lamery Tunsil, who, at 30, raises concerns about his longevity in the demanding realm of professional football. Membou’s untapped potential signifies not just a temporary fix but a promising cornerstone for the Texans’ offensive line, ensuring sustained strength and resilience for seasons to come.