The Houston Texans, gearing up for their 2025 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, are counting down the days by reflecting on the players who have donned the number 69 since the franchise's inception in 2002. The current holder of the number is Ed Ingram, who joined the Texans after a stint with the Minnesota Vikings. Ingram's role aims to stabilize the offensive line, particularly in the guard position, filling the void left by former first-round pick Kenyon Green, whose performance failed to meet expectations.

Ingram's addition could alter the dynamics of the Texans' lineup significantly, especially since the team is looking to bolster its offensive capabilities heading into the new season. It remains to be seen if Ingram will secure a permanent role or if his position will be influenced by the Texans' ongoing evaluations of their roster. The countdown continues as anticipation builds for a strong performance on the road.

Ed Ingram is set to join the Houston Texans as they trade a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings, marking a significant step in Houston's overhaul of its offensive line under new coach Cole Popovich. While Ingram aims to revitalize his career at NRG Stadium, he is primarily being brought in to replace Kendrick Green, not to fill the shoes of the recently departed Shaq Mason or Kenyon Green. With 41 starts under his belt, Ingram brings experience, though his performance last season raised concerns due to a high pressure rate and mediocre PFF grades.

As the Texans work towards rebuilding their offensive line identity, Ingram's initial role is projected as depth rather than a guaranteed starter. His competition will be newcomer Laken Tomlinson, suggesting an open battle for starting guard positions. The Texans aim to secure a long-term solution at the position, and Ingram's path to a successful stint in Houston hinges on his ability to shed past inconsistencies during training camp.

The Minnesota Vikings face a pivotal offseason as they contemplate roster changes for the upcoming season, particularly concerning offensive guard Ed Ingram. Ingram, who struggled significantly last season, lost his starting position and ended the year with a disappointing overall grade of 54.0 according to Pro Football Focus, ranking him at 100th out of 135 qualifying guards. With a looming cap hit of $3.7 million, more than double last season's $1.6 million, the Vikings may consider cutting Ingram, incurring only $385,000 in dead cap. This decision is compounded by Ingram allowing five sacks and tallying three penalties over 580 snaps, illustrating a decline in performance.

As Ingram enters the final year of his contract, the Vikings could be inclined to seek upgrades at the guard position, especially after assessing his regression from the previous year where he had a higher overall grade of 59.5. The combination of his performance issues and the increased financial burden may ultimately seal his fate in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Vikings will be without linebacker Pat Jones II for their crucial regular-season finale against the Detroit Lions due to a knee injury sustained against the Green Bay Packers. Despite some optimism from head coach Kevin O’Connell about Jones possibly returning, he did not practice all week, leaving rookie Dallas Turner to step up in his absence.

Turner, who has gained valuable experience over the season, is expected to play a significant role, having already made impactful plays in recent games. Additionally, linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill is questionable for the game due to illness, while cornerback Fabian Moreau is also uncertain after missing the last two games with a hip injury.

On the offensive side, running back Aaron Jones and guard Ed Ingram are set to play, crucial for a game that will determine the NFC North champion and the top seed in the NFC playoffs. The Lions also face their own injury challenges, with key players like David Montgomery and Emmanuel Moseley ruled out.

The matchup has been highlighted as a significant event, with players like quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Justin Jefferson discussing their pre-game routines and the excitement surrounding the game. The Vikings are adjusting their schedule to ensure players are prepared for the later kickoff.