Houston Texans' DeMeco Ryans Reveals Why Jason Verrett Was Added to Practice Squad

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans explains what went into the decision to acquire cornerback Jason Verrett, who has been out of the league since 2021.

Few players in the history of the sport have showcased both incredible talent and brutal injury luck as much as cornerback Jason Verrett.

Football is a violent game that can erase its stars as quickly as it makes them, but Verrett refuses to fade away.

Verrett has played like one of the top cornerbacks in football essentially whenever he’s healthy. That qualifier, though, has proven to be an issue. Verrett has sustained two ACL tears, two Achilles tears, two shoulder labrum tears, and a number of other strains and pulls. It’s a testament to his perseverance that he returned to action in his last full season, 2020, but that sentiment is even more worthwhile now.

He hasn’t seen game action since 2021, but Verrett was signed to the Houston Texans practice squad early on Wednesday.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans, who coached Verrett during his time with the San Francisco 49ers, spoke about what he brings to the table.

“He brings that veteran experience,” Ryans said. “Just an outstanding young man, first and foremost, just off the field. So it’s great to have him in the building, from a ‘how does a professional do it’ [standpoint]. That’s what Jason brings to us.”

The likelihood that Verrett gets a call up to the 53-man roster isn’t yet clear, but that doesn’t mean Verrett, 32, can’t contribute in a meaningful way.

Verrett with the team that drafted him, the (then San Diego) Chargers / Jake Roth | USA TODAY Sports

Ryans is adamant about the importance of a winning mindset, and that’s been highlighted through the veterans he’s helped introduce to Houston, like cornerback Steven Nelson and receiver Robert Woods. Verrett fits that same mold and can help an ascending secondary.

Perhaps he’ll have advice for second-year corner Derek Stingley Jr., who got a glimpse of Verrett’s struggles when he was placed on injured reserve early in the season. Ryans made it clear, though, that the practice squad isn’t a roster of coaches—he’s here to play.

“Also, just a very talented guy,” Ryans added. “He’s had some ups and downs when it comes to the injuries, but when he’s on and when he’s healthy, he’s probably one of the best corners that I’ve been around. When it comes to playing sticky coverage, playing man coverage, smart player, can make plays on the football.”

Verrett, who has seven career interceptions to just 10 penalties, will likely remain on the boundary, whether it be at practice or any potential game action.

Regardless, he projects as a fit in Ryans’ defense and locker room alike. Verrett will look to spite the football gods one more time.