Head Coach Neal Brown has expressed serious concerns about the North Texas Mean Green offensive line as preparations for the 2026 season continue. Following a recent practice, Brown remarked, "They’re not anywhere close to being what we need them to be right now," pointing out issues like softness in the run game and inadequate pad level.
Last season, the offensive line was vital to North Texas' success, helping the team achieve the highest number of rushing touchdowns in the nation with 49 and earning recognition as the top-scoring offense. However, with all five starting offensive linemen from that season having departed, the team is now tasked with rebuilding.
Only two players, senior Johnny Williams IV and fifth-year Chandler Strong, have shown promise during fall camp, with Strong noted as the standout performer.
Brown stressed the urgency of finding the right mix of players, 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 reportedly open for competition as the coaching staff aims to form a physically dominant group before the first game on September 5.
The pressure is mounting on Brown, offensive line coach Matt Mattox, and run game coordinator Mike Bloesch to enhance the offensive line's performance in time for the season. Brown warned, "If our offensive line plays like they did on Saturday or today, then we’re going to struggle." Further details on the lineup and strategies remain unclear.
