Texans S Jalen Pitre Building Chemistry With Jimmie Ward, Teammates

Ahead of DeMeco Ryans' first season in Houston, chemistry will prove to be crucial to his team, which Jalen Pitre has already begun to work on.

The Houston Texans have made one thing very clear since the beginning of the DeMeco Ryans era: they value team chemistry. 

Even back at the NFL Combine, just weeks after Ryans was officially hired, he made sure to emphasize that not only was chemistry important but connecting with players as a coach was as well.

"I've been in these guys' shoes," Ryans said. "I've played the game, I've been through the combine process ... I understand what players go through, not only on the field but off the field."

"To be able to be a good coach, you have to connect with [players]," he added. "It is not just about telling guys what to do, [it's] about being on a level ... where they have a true mutual respect for you, and feel like [you] have their best interests at heart." 

Now that OTA's are officially concluded, the Texans can set their sights on the mandatory minicamp from June 13-15, leaving some time for players to continue to work individually on their game. 

But Houston's rising star Jalen Pitre couldn't be more excited to get to work, especially with veteran Jimmie Ward, who is set to be his new teammate next year. 

"We've had great interactions [so far]," Pitre said. "We already have a handshake, so that's lit. You know, he's a good guy. He's a leader. I can see why he's been in the league so long."

Handshake on 🔒 pic.twitter.com/vI7oGa2hGp

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) May 24, 2023

Last season, Pitre tallied 99 solo tackles for the Texans — leading all rookies — and 147 total to go along with five interceptions and a sack to cap off his impressive rookie season. On the other side, Ward finished with 50 total tackles, three interceptions and a forced fumble in his ninth NFL season with the San Francisco 49ers. 

The veteran spent last season with Ryans as his defensive coordinator, bringing in past chemistry and experience with him to Houston, which is now being spread to Pitre and the rest of the defense. 

And with increased chemistry, the Texans are looking to improve their on-field performance, with Pitre, Ward and Ryans leading the charge to set the tone for the defense and the rest of the roster. 

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