Houston Texans Eye Detroit Lions Guard Kevin Zeitler to Bolster Offensive Line
In a surprising turn of events, the Houston Texans are setting their sights on Detroit Lions guard Kevin Zeitler as a potential game-changer to address their offensive line struggles.
Texans’ Ongoing Quest for Improvement
Despite clinching back-to-back AFC South titles, the Houston Texans are acutely aware of the pressing needs within their roster. One glaring deficiency lies in their offensive line, a unit ranked among the weakest in the NFL, evidenced by allowing quarterback C.J. Stroud to be sacked a staggering 52 times during the previous season.
Crucial Offseason Move
Recognizing the urgency to fortify their offensive front, the Texans are compelled to make significant moves in the upcoming free agency period, notwithstanding their limited cap space. Jordan Dajani, from CBS Sports, has pinpointed a viable solution for Houston in the form of Kevin Zeitler, an experienced guard from the Detroit Lions.
Dajani highlighted, “The struggles of the Texans’ offensive line in 2024 contributed to the team’s coaching changes and C.J. Stroud’s performance decline. Bringing in a seasoned Pro Bowl guard like Kevin Zeitler could be a transformative move for Houston. Despite approaching 35, Zeitler continues to deliver exceptional performances on the field and provides valuable leadership in the locker room.”
Zeitler’s Impressive Track Record
During the previous season, Zeitler showcased his enduring prowess by participating in all 16 games and garnering an outstanding overall grade of 86.8 from Pro Football Focus, affirming his enduring capabilities. A product of the University of Wisconsin, Zeitler entered the NFL as the 27th overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2012 Draft. Throughout his career, he has also represented the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and Baltimore Ravens, earning a Pro Bowl selection with the Ravens in 2023.
Potential Deal on the Horizon
With Zeitler’s contract set to expire, the Texans are positioned to potentially secure his services on a one-year agreement in the upcoming offseason, mirroring the Lions’ strategy from the previous year. This move could significantly bolster Houston’s offensive line and provide much-needed stability and experience to propel the team forward in the ensuing season.