Houston Texans Make Key O-Line Adjustments: Juice Scruggs Moves to Left Guard

In a strategic move to enhance protection for their quarterback C.J. Stroud, the Houston Texans are adjusting their offensive line for Week 10. Center Juice Scruggs will be moved to the left guard position, while Jarrett Patterson, a 2023 sixth-round pick from Notre Dame, will step in as the starting center.

This adjustment comes after Stroud was sacked a season-high eight times and hit 11 more times in the Texans’ loss to the Jets last week. For the season, Stroud has been sacked 30 times, the second most in the NFL. By moving Scruggs to left guard, the Texans aim to improve blocking assignments and reduce the pressure on their quarterback. Scruggs will no longer be responsible for making line calls on protection adjustments, a duty that will now fall to Patterson, who is known for his cerebral approach and strong technique.

The move is also influenced by the injury to starting left guard Kenyon Green, who has been placed on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury. This change is part of the Texans’ effort to stabilize their offensive line and provide better support for Stroud.