Charles

Spencer

It’s a lot to ask a former tight end who only played offensive line for two seasons in college, and at guard. David Carr should be concerned, but Houston may as well go with a youth movement this year.

“At this point right now, I would say it doesn’t look good,” coach Gary Kubiak said. “But Charles’ future as far as playing football again does look good. Will it be this year? As of right now, that doesn’t look like that’s going to take place.”

Head coach Gary Kubiak made the announcement about the Texans starting left tackle, saying “he’s got a ways to go.” A third-round pick last year, Spencer broke his leg last season and the Texans previously said that he was 50-50 at best for week one. Veteran Ephraim Salaam is the likely starter, but will get competition from Jordan Black.

“Charles is not going to be ready to play this year, but we don’t have any doubt that he’s going to be able to play again,” coach Garby Kubiak said. “We’re looking at next year, and I think we’ve been working toward that the whole time.” Ephraim Salaam will remain the starter on Matt Schaub’s blind side.

Spencer, once viewed as the team’s left tackle of the future, could be moved to guard if he’s lost some explosiveness after a severe leg fracture. The Texans will likely consider it a bonus if he can contribute moving forward.

GM Jerry Reese is always on the prowl for value and Spencer was once a rising talent, but a 2006 compound leg fracture sapped most of his ability.

A former third-round pick who the Texans once considered their left tackle of the future, Spencer must not have shown he’s recovered from his 2006 compound leg fracture. His career is in serious doubt.

If teams aren’t even willing to stash Spencer on their injured reserve lists, he might be done. Spencer was a third-round pick in 2006.

With Richard Collier still in critical condition, Spencer may be forced into a key reserve role behind starting RT Tony Pashos and LT Khalif Barnes.