Texans place Braden Smith on injured reserve before Week 1 game

Houston Texans right tackle Braden Smith will miss at least the first four games of the 2026 regular season after being placed on injured reserve. General manager Nick Caserio confirmed the move on Tuesday following an injury the veteran blocker sustained during a late-August joint practice session. The team signed Smith to a two-year, $25 million contract this offseason to solidify the offensive line and improve a rushing attack that finished 30th in rush EPA per play during the 2025 season. The absence of the expected starter complicates preparations for the Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, a team that struggled to defend the run last year. While the Texans retain Trent Brown as a replacement, the loss of Smith removes a key piece intended to protect C.J. Stroud and provide stability to the blocking unit. Smith is expected to remain sidelined for four to six weeks.

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