Houston Texans Offensive Lineman Fully Healthy and Ready to Compete for Starting Spot in 2024**
The Houston Texans experienced a tumultuous situation at left guard last season. Their anticipated starter, Kenyon Green, missed the entire 2023 season due to a shoulder injury sustained in the preseason finale. Throughout the season, the Texans rotated through four different players at left guard.
Josh Jones began the season as the starter but moved to left tackle in Weeks 2 and 3 due to an injury to Laremy Tunsil. Jones then suffered a hand injury, causing him to miss Weeks 4 and 5, and he did not return to the starting lineup. Kendrick Green took over in Week 2 and started until Week 4, but a knee injury sidelined him for the rest of the season.
Tytus Howard, who missed the first four games with a hand injury, filled in for Green from Weeks 5 to 12 before a season-ending knee injury. Juice Scruggs, who was out for the first ten games due to a hamstring injury, started from Weeks 13 to 18 and played in the two playoff games.
One of these injured starters, Kendrick Green, is now fully recovered. Green, who suffered a season-ending meniscus tear in his right knee, has undergone surgery and is ready to compete. “I feel great, I’m ready to get after it,” Green told KPRC 2 at teammate Steven Sims Jr.’s youth football camp. “I’m in the best shape I’ve been in in my whole life, so I’m ready to go.”
Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Green will be an unrestricted free agent in 2025. With Juice Scruggs moving back to center and Tytus Howard returning to right tackle, there is an open competition for the starting left guard position. Green is eager to compete, saying, “I think it’s going to be fun. I’m excited. I know a lot of other guys are excited. So, we’re going to get after it and see how it comes out.”
Kenyon Green, the Texans’ 2022 first-round pick, will also vie for the starting spot. After struggling in his rookie season, Kenyon missed the 2023 season due to a torn labrum. He has also fully recovered and is heading into a crucial 2024 season. The Texans must decide on his fifth-year option for the 2026 season next May. Despite initial struggles, strong performance this season could change the Texans’ decision.
Kenyon has been receiving first-team reps in offseason workouts, but this could change as training camp progresses. Both Greens are prepared for a competitive battle for the starting left guard position.
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