Braden Smith

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Texans significantly overpaid for unproven production, making this an F CVI deal that reeks of desperation in free agency. Braden Smith lands $10M annually despite sitting in the unproven performance tier, a glaring mismatch between compensation and on-field value that suggests Houston panicked rather than properly evaluated the tackle market. At two years with $13.5M guaranteed, the Texans are essentially betting $6.75M per season on potential rather than proven ability — a risky proposition for a franchise trying to protect a young quarterback in C.J. Stroud. The contract structure does offer some escape velocity after two seasons, but that's cold comfort when you're overpaying by this margin for a player who hasn't demonstrated he belongs in the starting tackle conversation. This deal screams of a front office that got outbid on better options and settled for an inferior player at premium pricing, exactly the type of transaction that can derail a salary cap in a hurry.

Performance Analysis

Braden Smith's F performance grade places him among the bottom-tier tackles in the NFL, a concerning development for a 30-year-old established veteran who was supposed to stabilize Houston's offensive line. Despite playing in 13 games this season, Smith's on-field production has been replacement-level at best, failing to justify the $10M AAV investment the Texans made when they signed him as their marquee free agency acquisition. His struggles are particularly problematic given his eight-year career experience and second-round pedigree — this isn't a developmental issue but rather a veteran failing to execute basic pass protection and run blocking assignments. The disconnect between his F grade and the organization's faith in him as a "solid starter acquisition" highlights how desperate Houston was to address their tackle position, essentially overpaying for name recognition rather than current ability. Smith's poor performance undermines the Texans' broader offensive line rebuilding effort, as they needed him to be a reliable anchor while younger players develop around him. At this stage of his career, Smith appears to be a declining asset who may struggle to provide even adequate protection against the AFC South's elite edge rushers.

Fan Sentiment

A smart, low-risk value signing that solidifies Houston's offensive line at a reasonable price. Multiple reporters graded the deal favorably, noting the two-year, $20M structure as team-friendly. Smith's experience protecting C.J. Stroud's blind side is the strongest indicator this move works. Fans are excited about continuity and keeping a proven veteran away from a division rival. If healthy, Smith stabilizes a critical position and keeps Houston's offensive line competitive in the AFC South.