The Houston Texans haven’t been known for their offensive line, but DeMeco Ryans wants to change that.
The rookie coach came from the San Francisco 49ers where Kyle Shanahan built a team known for its road-grading offensive line. Given that Ryans added Shanahan’s former passing game coordinator in Bobby Slowik to be the Texans’ new offensive coordinator, it is not surprising Ryans would like to see the same philosophy replicated in Houston.
“We have a really good offensive line group,” Ryans said on May 23 after organized team activities at Houston Methodist Training Center. “Veteran guys mixed in with some young guys. Right now expect our O-line to be one of the strengths of our team.”
There are key pieces to work with, chiefly three-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Houston also has two solid veterans in right tackle Tytus Howard and right guard Shaq Mason. Left guard Kenyon Green, a former 2022 first-round pick, represents potential. The only area where there is a question mark is center as the Texans are relying on a trio of veterans — Michael Deiter, Jimmy Morrissey, Scott Quessenberry — and two rookies in Jarrett Patterson and Juice Scruggs to determine the starter.
Ryans knows that offensive line Chris Strausser and assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich will get it figured out.
Said Ryans: “Those guys have done an outstanding job of getting the guys ready to play, being honed in on the details. Our offensive line, they’ve been impressive to watch over these few practices that we’ve had.”
Offensive line is a position predicated upon collisions, yet the NFL does not allow padded practices until training camp. All that can be evaluated is technique, footwork, and other technical aspects of the unit.
Nevertheless Ryans remains optimistic about how a possible strength of the team is developing.
“It’s been very impressive to watch and see how they’ve come along,” Ryans said. “I’m very excited where they’re going. I would expect them to continue to improve and definitely be a strength for our offense.”
