49ers’ DC DeMeco Ryans emerges as ‘top candidate’ for Texans’ HC job, reports say

Two days before the San Francisco 49ers play the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game, defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans is making more noise in the NFL head-coaching landscape.

The 49ers’ DC has emerged as the top candidate for the Houston Texans’ HC position, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero Friday. Ryans will meet with the Houston franchise sometime next week, and if all goes well, he could be the next lead man in H-Town.

#49ers DC DeMeco Ryans has emerged as a top candidate for the #Texans, sources tell me and @TomPelissero. He’s expected to meet with Houston at some point next week after the game. There is mutual interest and if all goes well, he could be their next head coach. pic.twitter.com/Wj2htQYEd1

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 27, 2023

“Just 38 years old, DeMeco Ryans put himself in position to be coveted by several NFL teams,” Rapoport said in a later tweet. “Mutual interest with the Texans and could be their next coach.”

The news comes only a day after reports out of Denver hinted that Ryans’s is top of the list for the Broncos’ HC job as well.

The former linebacker met with both squads prior to the 49ers’ NFC divisional round clash with the Dallas Cowboys Sunday. Denver flew into the Bay Area to meet with Ryans that week, while Houston conducted their initial interview virtually, via Zoom.

Only a second-year DC, Ryans has molded the 49ers’ defense into a top unit in the NFL, leading the league in interceptions this season. Turning down a second interview with the Minnesota Vikings to stay in the Bay last year, Ryans feels ready to take that next step in his coaching journey.

“He’s as good as it gets when it comes to scheme on defense. As a leader of men, he’s as good as it gets,” defensive end Nick Bosa said about Ryans Wednesday.

Ryans was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2006, spending six seasons with the organization. and making two Pro Bowl appearances. The organization and fan base have the utmost respect for their former defensive captain, hoping he can turn around the misfortunes of the franchise.

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