Texans Work Out Two Proven Veteran Tackles with Starting Experience After O-Line Shuffle

Houston, TX – October 14, 2025

The Houston Texans are wasting no time addressing depth concerns along their offensive line. Following their Week 6 bye, the team hosted two established veterans —

Nicholas Petit-Frere and D’Ante Smith — for official workouts, according to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson.

Petit-Frere, a former third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, brings legitimate starting experience to the table. The 26-year-old appeared in

34 games (28 starts) with the Tennessee Titans and briefly spent time with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2025 offseason. Known for his length and physical play, Petit-Frere has shown the versatility to play both tackle spots and could provide instant insurance for Houston’s protection unit.

Meanwhile, Smith, a former fourth-round selection by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021, is eager to return after missing time with a patellar tendon injury. The 27-year-old impressed early in his career with his athleticism and technique before the setback, and his recovery progress has reportedly drawn positive reviews from multiple teams.

The Texans’ tackle depth has thinned in recent weeks following a string of roster moves — including trading Cam Robinson to the Browns and promoting Trent Brown from the practice squad. Currently,

Aireontae Ersery and Tytus Howard hold down the starting jobs, while Blake Fisher and Brown serve as backups.

Bringing in two experienced linemen with starting pedigrees suggests that general manager

Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans are leaving no stone unturned in strengthening C.J. Stroud’s protection heading into the second half of the season.

While no signings have been finalized, both Petit-Frere and Smith are viewed as

high-upside, low-risk options who could make their way onto the active roster or practice squad in the coming days — especially if injuries continue to mount in the trenches.

Packers Star Rashan Gary Honors Childhood Friend’s Family With $10K Monthly Promise

Green Bay, WI – September 10, 2025

Rashan Gary has built a reputation in Green Bay as the emotional heartbeat of the Packers’ defense — relentless, disciplined, and unshakable in big moments. Yet beyond the roar of Lambeau Field, Gary carries a quiet story of loyalty and gratitude that few have ever known.

Years ago, when Gary was still a student-athlete chasing his football dream, financial struggles nearly forced him off track. At that critical moment, the family of a childhood friend stepped in to cover his tuition fees

, ensuring he could continue his education and football journey without the burden of financial doubt.

For Gary, it was never just about money. It was about faith, hope, and a bond he swore he would honor for life.

Since earning his NFL salary, Gary has kept that vow. For the last three years, he has sent $10,000 every month to the very family that once lifted him when he needed it most. The total has already surpassed $360,000, but for Gary, it isn’t about the amount. It’s about

showing gratitude in action.

“They stepped in at a time when everything could have fallen apart,” Gary said. “I promised myself I’d never forget. Every month I send that support, it’s a reminder of where I came from and who believed in me.”

And in a touching twist, that same childhood friend has quietly been by Gary’s side at nearly every game, a constant presence in the stands while the rest of the world only saw the sacks and celebrations.

In Green Bay, fans already know Rashan Gary as a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense. Now, this story reveals another layer — a man who understands that greatness is not only measured in tackles and sacks, but also in gratitude and lifelong bonds.