Texans Activated Tackle Braden Smith From Injured Reserve
The Houston Texans brought the veteran lineman back to the active roster following a foot injury.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Football
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The Houston Texans have officially activated offensive tackle Braden Smith from injured reserve. Smith was placed on the reserve list before Week 1 due to a foot injury.
Why it matters
Smith brings significant experience to the Houston offensive line, having started 105 games during his eight-season tenure with the Indianapolis Colts.
Braden Smith was originally a 2018 second-round draft pick who signed a two-year contract with the Texans during the 2026 offseason. He previously appeared in 107 total games over eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts.
The players
Braden Smith
He is an veteran offensive tackle who joined the Texans after playing eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts.
Houston Texans
This professional football team is based in Houston and competes in the NFL.
Mark Gronowski
He is a quarterback who was signed to the Houston Texans practice squad.
Bryce Oliver
He is a wide receiver who joined the practice squad following a stint on the active roster.
The details
Alongside the activation of Smith, the Texans signed quarterback Mark Gronowski and wide receiver Bryce Oliver to the practice squad. Both players were previously waived from the active roster during the prior week.
Timeline
Braden Smith was selected in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Smith signed a two-year deal with the Texans in the 2026 offseason.
The team placed Smith on injured reserve ahead of Week 1 of the 2026 season.
Kayden McDonald and M.J. Stewart were activated by the team in Week 5.
The Texans officially activated Braden Smith from injured reserve on October 14, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The return of a veteran starter like Smith provides a significant boost to the team as they navigate mid-season roster adjustments. His activation follows the recent return of other players, including Kayden McDonald and M.J. Stewart, as the team continues to address injury depth.
Smith's return to the active roster provides the Texans with a veteran presence on the offensive line that may improve protection for the quarterback. The team currently continues to manage the recovery process for wide receiver Tank Dell.
The takeaway
The activation of a veteran player from injured reserve marks a strategic shift toward full roster health for the Texans. Fans should monitor injury reports to see how the offensive line lineup changes in upcoming games.
Further reading
For more on the current roster and team developments, follow our coverage of Houston Football.
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