'Right Track!' DeMeco Ryans Optimistic on Texans Line

Head coach DeMeco Ryans' comments reveal the shape of the offensive line heading into Week 1.

The Houston Texans’ first-team offensive line looked much better on Saturday and, unsurprisingly, quarterback C.J. Stroud did, too.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans already praised his line’s performance after the 28-3 loss to the Miami Dolphins. On Monday, he provided additional insight on the status of multiple starters.

In the wake of a season-ending injury to starting center Scott Quessenberry, rookie Juice Scruggs was elevated to the top of the depth chart. So far, the youngster has impressed, generating an excellent 81.5 pass blocking grade from Pro Football Focus.

“Juice Scruggs did a very nice job communicating,” Ryans said. “We’re very encouraged with where he’s progressing as a young player.”

Communication is a vital aspect of playing center, and one younger players tend to struggle with. For that reason, teams typically allow their rookies to sit until they are more acclimated to the NFL game. Houston will not have that luxury, but seems to be in good hands.

Perhaps they can take some comfort in how the rest of their offensive line projects. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil is a star. Left guard Kenyon Green has only burned a year of his first-round pedigree. On the right side of the line, Shaq Mason and Tytus Howard give the Texans two reliable veterans.

The latter suffered a broken hand early in camp and was given a timeline of four to six weeks. On Monday, Ryans spoke specifically to his progress.

“He’s headed on [the] right track for sure,” Ryans said. Houston is pleased with where he’s at, and he was seen with his cast off before Saturday’s game.

It is not yet clear if Howard will be ready for Week 1, but all signs are pointing towards a mitigated absence for the veteran right tackle.

Scruggs and his fellow linemen will have a chance to impress once again on Sunday when the Texans face the New Orleans Saints to finish the preseason.

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You can follow Anthony Licciardi on Twitter @ALiccScouting.

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