DeMeco Ryans Reveals Two Important Attributes Denico Autry Brings To Houston Texans

Coach DeMeco Ryans was determined to enhance the Houston Texans' defensive line unit, which led to the franchise signing veteran Denico Autry this offseason.

Tennessee Titans defensive end Denico Autry (96) sacks Houston Texans quarterback Case Keenum (18) during their game at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023. / Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA

Coach DeMeco Ryans was determined to upgrade the Houston Texans' defensive line this offseason. As a result, the Texans added a handful of linemen to their roster, headlined by All Pro Danielle Hunter. Houston also added veteran Denico Autry.

In March, the former undrafted prospect from Mississippi State agreed to a two-year free-agency deal and will play a vital role in helping the Texans achieve their championship aspirations.

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"He’s one of the toughest players, I think, and one of the toughest and most respected players across the League," coach DeMeco Ryans said. "You talk to any offensive lineman that’s went against him; he has their utmost respect. So – and you see the way he plays, he plays the game the right way.

After beginning his career with the then-Oakland-Raiders in 2014, Autry has established himself as one of the most underrated players. He has registered 59.0 sacks over his 10-year career. Despite his age, Autry's skill sets improve each year.

During his final season with the Tennessee Titans, Autry posted a career-best 11.5 sacks and 50 tackles across 17 games in 2023. Amid the Titans' 19-16 overtime loss to the Texans on Dec. 17, Ryans received a small sample size of Autry's dominance. He recorded four tackles and two sacks — marking one of his best games of the season.

Houston's new defensive lineman recorded a combined 28.0 sacks in 2023. Hunter became the Texans' biggest free agency acquisition, as the four-time Pro Bowler agreed to a two-year deal worth $49 million.

"Obviously, he plays hard, he plays with an intensity that’s unmatched, and he still finds a way to get in the backfield, moving around, playing multiple spots," Ryans said. "Whether it’s at the interior, or on the edge, he’s just a tough hard-nose football player that’s unbreakable."

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Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24.