Head Coach Neal Brown has expressed serious concerns regarding the North Texas Mean Green offensive line as the team gears up for the 2026 season. Following a recent practice, Brown remarked that the line is not meeting expectations, citing issues with run game effectiveness and pad level.
The offensive line was pivotal during the 2025 season, helping the team achieve a national high of 49 rushing touchdowns and ranking as the top-scoring offense. Key contributors from last year 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 is now tasked with rebuilding this critical unit. Only two players, senior Johnny Williams IV and fifth-year Chandler Strong, have shown promise during fall camp, with Strong emerging as a standout performer.
Brown emphasized the need to find the right mix of players, noting that the team cannot compete effectively with only two offensive linemen. All positions on the line are open for competition as the coaching staff aims to establish a strong and physically dominant group before their first game on September 5.
The pressure is on Brown, offensive line coach Matt Mattox, and run game coordinator Mike Bloesch to enhance the offensive line's performance ahead of the season. Further details on the lineup and strategies remain unclear.
