Texans' DeMeco Ryans Looking to 'Add Depth at Every Position'
INDIANAPOLIS -- DeMeco Ryans is in a different mindset during his second visit at the NFL Combine as coach of the Houston Texans. During his first visit in 2023, Ryans was new to the head coaching job, trying to decide which quarterback prospect would be best for the Texans, Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud.
The Texans selected Stroud with the No. 2 pick and traded for Will Anderson Jr. at No. 3 during the 2023 NFL Draft. The decision led to the Texans establishing their foundation for a bright future. Ryans is less stressed as he begins to lay the groundwork for his second season. His top objective in 2024 is to "add depth at every position," whether free agency or the draft.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans talks to the media at the 2024 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center.
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
"It's every position group," Ryans said. "I don't think there's one position group where I can say on our team, 'OK, we're set.' I think every position group we can enhance it, we can be better, we can play better. It was a good season, but it didn't end the way we wanted it to end. I think from that perspective, it's all about how we can add value and depth to our team in a lot of different spots."
Houston is looking to build upon the success of the 2023 season. The Texans finished with a 10-7 record while reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2019. They advanced to the Divisional Round of the Playoffs and were eliminated by the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 20.
Ryans said the Texans had a "good run" last season. But despite their success, he is focused on building for 2024, especially when considering that the Texans' season did not end as they hoped.
Houston is looking to add players who embody the Texans' culture of having a relentless mindset while playing for each other.
"You never stay the same is how I attack it," Ryans said. "Every offseason you never stay the same from a coaching perspective and a player perspective.
"How can we continue to improve? It's players. It's coaching. How can we improve upon what we did last year? You don't stay the same so how can we grow? How can we get better? So that's how we're attacking this offseason with that get better mindset."
Ryans feels one of his best attributes is his ability to connect with players as a former All-Pro linebacker. His approach will not change in year two. He is looking forward to getting to know players in hopes of helping the Texans reach their overall goal in 2024.
