Houston Texans

Texans coach O'Brien turns his attention to center

Published May. 20, 2015 1:28 p.m. ET

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The Houston Texans are in the market for a new starting center after releasing seven-year starter Chris Myers earlier in the offseason.

Luckily for head coach Bill O'Brien, a few candidates are already in place on the roster.

“Right now, there’s Ben Jones who has basically been out there during our coaching sessions during Phase 1 and Phase 2 and he’s done a good job," O'Brien said, according to the team's official website. "He’s smart, tough, loves football, good guy, and good teammate so he’s been out there."

Jones, who is entering his fourth season with Houston, started all 16 games last season at left guard, while also serving as Myers' backup. His knowledge of the position may give him the advantage.

O'Brien also pointed to second-year player James Ferentz as another possibility, along with fellow second-year lineman Xavier Su'a-Filo.

“Xavier Su’a Filo can play center now," O'Brien said. "He’s concentrating on left guard but he’s a guy we’ve worked in at center and he’s done a nice job. He’s had a good offseason so those are some guys that have played there.”

The competition begins when the Texans open OTAs on May 26.

(h/t Houston Texans)

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