The Houston Texans went in a new direction for the third time in as many seasons as they sought a new coach.
Rather than going with an older coach who had experience, the Texans went with a younger coach who was taking his first shot as the man in charge on the sidelines.
Nothing energized the Texans organization and fan base more than the hiring of former two-time Pro Bowl linebacker DeMeco Ryans. Not only was “Cap” a fan favorite, but he was a formidable defensive coordinator in his own right with the San Francisco 49ers, who had appeared in the NFC Championship Game from 2021-22.
Four and a half months into the Ryans era, chairman and CEO Cal McNair can see the changes on the field — albeit artificial turf at Houston Methodist Training Center at that.
“The team is getting better,” McNair said at mandatory minicamp Tuesday. “That’s really what we want to see through this time period. What he says is iron sharpens iron, so, he has the guys working against each other, trying to get better. We’re looking forward to getting to training camp which is where it really gets started for the season. It’s coming along really well.”
Although Ryans is the reigning AP NFL Assistant Coach of the Year and his wheelhouse is defense, McNair is fascinated by the potential on the other side with new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud.
“I love the offense,” said McNair. “I’m a big fan of this offense. Excited to see the defense come together, under DeMeco. Watching the team really come together is really exciting for me because it’s all about the team coming together and playing great ball.”
The last time the Texans avoided a double-digit losing season was 2019. While the prospects are more difficult in the 17th game era, stacking more than four wins a season would be a welcomed product for Clutch City sports fans.
