Fix the Trenches or Fail? Texans’ #1 Offseason Priority | Linderbaum, Teven Jenkins & 2026 FA Plan

The message is loud. The numbers are louder.If the Houston Texans want to take the next step, there’s only one true priority heading into 2026 free agency: getting better up front.The Texans’ run game in 2025 told the whole story:29th in rushing success rate25th in yards before contact per rush27th in stuff rateBut here’s the number that should stop everyone in their tracks 👇1.9 rushing yards in the red zone0.9 yards inside the opponent’s 10-yard lineThat’s not play-calling. That’s not the quarterback.That’s a trenches problem.In this episode of Locked On Texans, we break down why Houston MUST invest in the interior offensive line—and which players can actually fix it.🔹 Centers who could unlock the playbook:Tyler LinderbaumCade MaysBoth instantly upgrade the line, solve Houston’s short-yardage issues, and bring experience blocking for 1,000-yard rushers. Even better? They give Houston flexibility to expand its run scheme and stop being predictable in critical moments.🔹 Guards Houston should target:Teven Jenkins – the biggest upside-to-value play on the marketStrong anchor in pass protectionPhysical, powerful run blockerInterior versatilityProjected $8–$12M in free agency (serious talent for the price)David EdwardsAlijah Vera-TuckerThe real debate? How can Houston land one of these guys without blowing up the cap?We break down the money, the strategy, and the backup plans that keep Houston flexible while fixing its biggest flaw.This is the offseason conversation that matters.Fix the front… or relive the same red-zone failures.Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!TurboTaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.Rocket MoneyLet Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON FanDuelIf you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty.  Rocket MoneyLet Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONPrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNFLGametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.RobinhoodTrade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firmIndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/lockedonnfl.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.