Texans target OT Verba
ProFootballWeekly.com asks associate editor Jeff Reynolds for his thoughts on the hottest topics in the NFL.
Texans look to Verba to solve problems at tackle
Since selecting OLT Tony Boselli with the first pick in the franchises expansion draft, and struggling through Bosellis injury-shortened tenure with the team, the Texans have been unable to fill the void at left tackle. Some scouts believe the unfortified offensive line, and in particular the weakness at left tackle, has stunted the growth of former No. 1 overall pick David Carr and the Houston offense. The Texans are considering moving C Seth McKinney to guard, which would precipitate Chester Pitts returning to left tackle. First, they will consider signing recently released Browns OLT Ross Verba.
PFW: In the short term, what is the best move for the Texans to make?
Reynolds: Carr has been sacked 140 times in three seasons, and his professional longevity depends almost fully on how Houston addresses its incompetent offensive line. The OLT position remains a question mark, but not for a lack of trying on the part of general manager Charley Casserly. Casserly attempted to lure Rams franchise player Orlando Pace in March, but Pace quickly signed a record deal to remain in St. Louis.
Pitts (6-4, 329) played left tackle in 2002 and 03 (Pitts allowed 15½ sacks in 02, 5¾ in 03) and was unspectacular, proving to be a better fit on the right side. Seth Wand still is a project entering his third season. At 6-7, 330, Wand looks the part, but the light has yet to come on. Victor Riley, a right tackle with Kansas City and New Orleans, allows Pitts to slide to the left side. Verba, a former Packers product with an injury history, can play all four outside positions on the line. Hes feisty and tenacious and would add a needed edge to the Texans front. That said, Verba would be a better asset in the running game than as a pass blocker, which doesnt solve the prevailing issue of protecting Carr. At this point, however, it would be easy to endorse Casserly adding another capable part, building depth and making his front five as solid as possible without going young.