Head Coach Neal Brown has expressed serious concerns about the North Texas Mean Green offensive line as preparations for the 2026 season continue. After a recent practice, Brown remarked, "They’re not anywhere close to being what we need them to be right now," pointing to problems such as a lack of toughness in the run game and inadequate pad level.
The offensive line was instrumental in North Texas' successful 2025 season, contributing to a national-leading total of 49 rushing touchdowns and earning recognition as the top-scoring offense. Key players included offensive guard Gabe Blair, who received First Team All-American Conference honors and was rated as the third-best guard by Pro Football Focus.
With all five starting offensive linemen from last season having departed, the team now faces the task of rebuilding. Only two players, senior Johnny Williams IV and fifth-year Chandler Strong, have stood out during fall camp, with Strong being noted as a standout performer.
Brown emphasized the need to find the right player combinations, stating, "Unfortunately, they don’t let you play college football with two offensive linemen, so we’ve got some work to do in that room."
All positions on the line are open for competition, as the coaching staff aims to develop a physically dominant unit before their first game on September 5. Brown warned that if the offensive line does not improve, the team will face significant challenges during the season.
