Texans Sign OT Braden Smith to 2-Year, $25M Contract | NFL Free Agency 2026

The Houston Texans are bolstering their offensive line, agreeing to a two-year, $25 million contract with free agent offensive tackle Braden Smith, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal includes $13.5 million fully guaranteed, according to Smith’s agent, Michael Perrett of Priority Sports.

This move is the latest in a series of offensive line upgrades for the Texans this offseason. Houston has already re-signed tackle Trent Brown and guard Ed Ingram. They also recently traded offensive tackle Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns and interior lineman Juice Scruggs to the Detroit Lions, signaling a clear intent to rebuild and reinforce the line.

Smith, 29, returns to the field after a challenging 2024 season with the Indianapolis Colts, where he battled a debilitating case of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He ended that season on the non-football illness list, and later publicly detailed his struggle. His successful return to play in 2025, starting 13 games at right tackle for the Colts, demonstrates a remarkable resilience and commitment to his craft.

The Colts drafted Smith in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, and he immediately stepped into a starting role. His consistent performance led to a lucrative contract extension in 2021, making him, at the time, the league’s highest-paid right tackle. Over eight NFL seasons, Smith has appeared in 107 games, starting 105, establishing himself as a reliable and powerful presence on the offensive line.

Smith’s arrival in Houston is particularly notable given his recent openness about his mental health struggles. In April of 2025, he spoke to the Indianapolis Star about a period where he was “physically present, but nowhere to be found,” admitting he had lost his passion for football and even contemplated ending his life. His willingness to share his story has positioned him as an advocate for improved mental healthcare within the NFL.

In November of 2025, a profile in NBC Sports highlighted Smith’s efforts to drive change in player mental healthcare. His agent, Michael Perrett, outlined Smith’s initiatives to support fellow NFL players. Perrett emphasized the critical need for readily available resources and acknowledged the trust issues that can prevent players from seeking aid from team employees. The article underscored the often-hidden pressures faced by NFL players, including the constant fear of being released and the negative impact of social media and online criticism.

The Texans’ acquisition of Smith isn’t simply about adding a talented offensive lineman; it’s about bringing in a player who understands the importance of mental well-being and is actively working to improve the support system for others in the league. His presence could be invaluable in fostering a more open and supportive environment within the Texans’ locker room, and beyond.

During the 2025 season, Smith was a key component of a Colts offensive line that paved the way for running back Jonathan Taylor’s dominant performance before injuries impacted the team’s quarterback situation. His powerful run blocking and overall consistency will be expected to translate to Houston, further enhancing the Texans’ offensive capabilities.

The Texans’ aggressive approach to improving their offensive line this offseason suggests a commitment to building a strong foundation for their offense. With the additions of Smith, Brown, and Ingram, coupled with the trades of Howard and Scruggs, Houston is clearly aiming to provide their quarterback with the protection and running lanes necessary to compete in the AFC. The success of this strategy will be a key factor in determining the Texans’ fortunes in the upcoming season.