Houston Texans Hire DeMeco Ryans as Their Next Head Coach

However, with that being said, the Texans also fired their previous two coaches after only one season at the helm. In 2021, David Culley led the Texans to a 4-13 record before general manager Nick Caserio fired him over "philosophical differences." Next, long-time Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith took the helm. Smith also lasted one season and posted a 3-13-1 record before being shown the door by Caserios.

While the Texans' track record for expecting instant gratification and success bodes ill for Ryans, perhaps he is the coach Houston needs for the future. In a statement to the Houston Texans and the City of Houston, Ryans said, "I'd like to first thank the San Francisco 49ers, Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch for six incredible seasons where I grew as a coach and a man. I couldn't be prouder of what we accomplished together, and I will always cherish the relationships I built there."

"Being the head coach of the Houston Texans is my dream job, and my family is thrilled to be back in H-Town. I have been around the game of football my entire life, and I've always had a natural ability to lead others. I know what it takes to win and be successful in this league as both a player and coach," Ryans said.

"We're going to build a program filled with players who have a special work ethic and relentless mindset. I understand the responsibility I have to this organization and to the fans of Houston to build a winner, and I can't wait to get to work."

Ryans, who took over the 49ers' defensive unit in 2021, helped build a defense that allowed the third-fewest yards per game (310). In 2022, San Francisco allowed the fewest points per game (16.8) and yards per game (300.6).

After San Francisco lost both Trey Lance, their starting quarterback, and Jimmy Garapolo, the defense carried much of the burden on their way to a 13-4 record and the no. 2 seed in the NFC. The 49ers beat the Seahawks and the Cowboys before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game.

Ryans also interviewed for the Denver Broncos head coaching job before deciding on the Houston Texans. The Saints and Broncos agreed later in the day, sending Sean Peyton to the Broncos to become their next head coach. The details on the trade are HERE.

The Texans compete with explosive offenses from Miami and the crushing ground game from Tennessee in their division. Ryans can help the Texans to claw their way back into the playoff picture again. Questions still need to be answered at the quarterback position, but Ryans's first foray into head coaching in the NFL has Texans fans waiting on bated breath.