The Houston Texans are making moves with purpose-and the latest one turns the page on a veteran presence along their offensive line. On Tuesday, the team officially waived guard Laken Tomlinson, a former Pro Bowler and 11-year NFL veteran, just days ahead of a massive AFC showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead.
Tomlinson, who joined Houston on a one-year deal this offseason, was brought in to stabilize the left guard spot. Early on, he held that role, starting in seven of the team’s first eight games.
But over time, his performance didn’t quite match expectations. According to some analytic outlets, he graded out near the bottom among qualifying guards this season-an indicator that the Texans’ coaching staff clearly took into account.
This isn’t just a roster shuffle-it’s a signal that Houston believes in its current direction up front.
A New-Look Interior
The Texans have been quietly retooling their offensive line over the past month, and Tomlinson’s departure is just the latest step in that evolution. After being replaced in the starting lineup by rookie Jarrett Patterson in Week 10, Tomlinson was inactive for the last two games. That move foreshadowed what became official this week: Houston is rolling forward with a younger, more dynamic interior line.
Right now, the Texans’ interior features Tytus Howard at left guard, Ed Ingram at right guard, and Juice Scruggs anchoring the middle at center. That trio has helped stabilize protection in recent weeks-no small feat considering the pressure quarterback C.J. Stroud has faced throughout the season.
Stroud has shown poise well beyond his years, but keeping him upright is non-negotiable if the Texans want to maintain their playoff trajectory. The offensive line’s improved cohesion without Tomlinson in the mix likely played a key role in the decision to move on.
Timing Is Everything
Let’s not overlook the timing here. The Texans are 7-5, surging after a crucial divisional win, and heading into one of their toughest tests of the season-a road trip to face the reigning Super Bowl champs.
Every move from here on out is about maximizing performance and minimizing risk. That includes making tough calls like releasing a respected veteran.
Tomlinson, 33, isn’t just a name on the depth chart-he was a first-round pick back in the day and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2021 with the 49ers. But in the NFL, past accolades only get you so far. With Houston eyeing a playoff push, the front office is clearly prioritizing production over pedigree.
Now, Tomlinson hits the waiver wire. Because the move comes after the trade deadline, he’ll be subject to waivers despite his veteran status. If he goes unclaimed, he’ll become a free agent, free to sign with any team looking for experienced help on the interior.
What’s Next?
As of now, the Texans haven’t announced a corresponding move to fill the open roster spot. But with playoff positioning on the line and health always a factor in December, expect that vacancy to be addressed sooner rather than later.
In the meantime, Houston turns its focus to Kansas City. The stakes are high, the opponent is elite, and the Texans are leaning into a younger, more agile offensive front to protect their franchise quarterback. It’s a bold move-but bold is exactly what this stretch run demands.