Texans C Nick Martin blames whole offensive line for LT Laremy Tunsil’s false starts

Houston Texans center Nick Martin blames the offensive line for left tackle Laremy Tunsil’s false start issues last season.

Laremy Tunsil had a notorious first season with the Houston Texans.

The former 2016 first-round pick made his first Pro Bowl, but also led the NFL with 14 false starts, and being the catalyst for the Houston Chronicle’s John McClain coining the term “Tunsilitis.”

Tunsil has taken responsibility for his part in the penalties that cost the Texans offense 70 yards over the course of the season. However, center Nick Martin won’t place the blame squarely on Tunsil’s shoulders.

“It’s all of us,” Martin said. “It’s never one person, no matter what it is. It’s a group effort. You’ve got five guys out there. You’ve got half the offense and it really is — it’s never on one of us. Obviously, he’s quick and he’s athletic and he’s going to do what he does. We’re not worried about him.”

Tunsil signed a three-year, $66 million contract extension with the Texans in the offseason, which makes him the highest paid offensive lineman in the game. Along with the having the biggest contract, Tunsil seeks to have as significant of an impact on the Texans offense.

“I’m very excited,” said Martin. “The tape doesn’t lie. We always say that in football, and you watch the tape and he’s dominating. We’re excited to have him here for a long time. I’m excited to play with him and see what this o-line can do.”

For the first time since 2011, the Texans will return all five starters along the offensive line. As a result, Houston should enjoy continuity along the blocking unit as they seek to defend their AFC South title.

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