DeMeco Ryans Explains Popovich’s Promotion to Texans Offensive Line Coach

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans prioritized finding an offensive coordinator who could improve quarterback protection. He believes he found that in former Los Angeles Rams coach Nick Caley. Caley faces a significant challenge, as the Texans struggled mightily in pass blocking last season, allowing the third-most sacks in the NFL. This poor performance contributed to the firings of Caley’s predecessor, Bobby Slowik, and offensive line coach Chris Strausser.  

Therefore, the subsequent hiring of Cole Popovich, an assistant under Strausser, as the lead offensive line coach and run game coordinator initially raised eyebrows. However, Ryans clarified the reasoning behind this decision. He emphasized Popovich’s developmental skills and strong relationships with the team’s young players. “Cole helped a lot of our young players when it came to developing. He had a really great relationship with a lot of guys, and I think very highly of Cole and what he’s able to do,” Ryans explained.

Popovich’s prior experience working alongside Caley with the New England Patriots also played a crucial role. The two coaches spent five seasons together in New England, with Popovich eventually becoming co-offensive line coach in 2020. Ryans believes this established rapport will allow them to work cohesively from day one. “I think him having a prior relationship with Nick as well, and them being able to work together and them to hit the ground running instantly,” Ryans said.  

Popovich is a rising talent in offensive line coaching, having taken on significant responsibilities at a young age. He left the Patriots in 2021 before the 2023 season.

Caley expressed his excitement about working with Popovich again, citing their strong working relationship and trust. While the Texans struggled with pass protection, Popovich’s focus was primarily on run blocking. Despite challenges in the run game, he helped Joe Mixon achieve a 1,000-yard rushing season. With Caley and Popovich’s experience in New England’s gap-centric rushing attack, the Texans may implement similar concepts this season.

Popovich will continue developing the Texans’ young offensive line. His primary objective, however, will be to protect quarterback C.J. Stroud, whose performance and confidence declined due to constant pressure last season. Caley emphasized that improving protection is a team effort, requiring synchronization among all players.  

“We all have to be in sync, and I think protection starts with communication, trust and cohesiveness up front and really having clear rules in the protection system,” Caley said. He stressed the importance of shared vision and coordinated effort between the offensive line, quarterback, and running back. The Texans are counting on Caley and Popovich’s pre-existing coordination to address these issues and improve their offensive line performance.Nguồn và nội dung liên quan

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