A Super Bowl–Winning Patriots Star Has Returned to Practice With the Texans Just Before the AFC Divisional Playoffs — Houston Makes the Final Decision on Him and C.J. Stroud

Houston, Texas – January 16, 2026

On the eve of a win-or-go-home AFC Divisional Playoff showdown, the Houston Texans received the biggest boost of their preparation week: veteran right tackle Trent Brown has officially returned to practice and is ready to play.

Brown missed two midweek practices due to a minor physical issue that surfaced after the Wild Card game. While it was never considered serious, the Texans’ coaching staff chose a cautious approach, limiting the workload of the 32-year-old lineman during the most delicate stage of the season. On Friday, Brown returned to full participation, putting to rest any concerns about his availability against the New England Patriots.

Brown’s presence means far more than just a name on the starting lineup. He is a Super Bowl champion with the Patriots in the 2018 season, when he played a key role on the offensive line protecting Tom Brady and helping New England capture the Lombardi Trophy with disciplined, battle-tested football in the biggest moments. That kind of playoff experience and composure on the sport’s grandest stage is something no game plan can manufacture.

For C.J. Stroud, Brown’s return arrives like perfectly timed armor. Throughout the 2025 season, the Texans were forced to shuffle their offensive line due to injuries, but whenever Brown was locked in at right tackle, Stroud’s performance stabilized noticeably. The numbers reflect it: Stroud finished the regular season with the lowest sack rate of his career, largely thanks to the reliability on the right side of the line.

Facing a Patriots defense known for discipline, patience, and timely pressure, the Texans understand that every offensive concept begins with keeping Stroud upright in the pocket. Brown doesn’t just protect the young quarterback; he brings calm and confidence to the entire offensive unit—an essential ingredient in a game where every yard carries weight.

When asked about facing his former team, Brown spoke with quiet resolve:

“I’ve experienced greatness in New England, and I’ll always respect that chapter of my career. But now, standing on the other side, my focus is singular. I wear Houston’s colors. I fight for this city and for the men in this locker room. If there’s any glory ahead, I want to bring it back to Houston—the place that trusted me and the place where my heart is right now.”

Those words were more than symbolism. They reflected the Texans’ decision heading into the biggest game of their season: to trust a Super Bowl champion to protect the future of the franchise. When the opening kickoff arrives, Trent Brown will be on the front line—shielding Stroud and the Texans’ ambition to take another step toward the top of the AFC.

The Texans’ final decision is clear. The coaching staff has confirmed that Trent Brown will start at right tackle in the AFC Divisional Playoffs, while placing full confidence in C.J. Stroud to lead the offense through its toughest test yet. This is more than a personnel call—it’s a strategic statement: blending the poise of a Super Bowl winner with the brilliance of a franchise quarterback. In a moment when a season can hinge on a single block or a single throw, Houston believes Brown’s steadiness and Stroud’s composure are the foundation for moving forward—not just to win a playoff game, but to prove they are ready for the AFC’s biggest stage.