The Houston Texans are in the process of trying to transform their franchise from a fun roster into a competitive team built on winning a Super Bowl in 2025. Over the past two offseasons, ownership invested plenty into the decision makers and high powers to secure the right talent, only to have finished with back-to-back 10-7 finishes.
Still, Houston is filled with promising people who are respected in NFL league circles. DeMeco Ryans was considered a rising star during his time as the San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator. So far, he’s met the criteria, totaling 22 wins in two years, including a pair of postseason victories.
Now, two more names under his watch are gaining that same type of love.
The Athletic recently released its ’50 under 40′ list, showcasing top coaches and executives under the age of 40. Two members of the Texans organization were listed.
Among coaches, Jerrod Johnson was considered one of the brightest offensive minds and quarterback gurus. Having worked with C.J. Stroud since being drafted out of Ohio State, Johnson remains a staple in the Texans’ community and should be considered a hot name to receive a promotion next offseason if Stroud leads Houston to its third postseason appearance.
“Johnson has interviewed for offensive coordinator jobs in the last two hiring cycles but many in league circles believe his true potential lies beyond that — as a future head coach,” The Atheltic wrote.
Among the scouting community, D.J. Debick has garnered high praise. Currently serving as the director of pro scouting, Debick’s influence on free agency and trades has made him one of the rising stars in the scouting world. He has helped Houston land premier talents like All-Pro defensive end Danielle Hunter and linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair while trading for two-time All-Pro receiver Stefon Diggs.
Debick also had a crucial role in helping Houston stabilize the salary cap to extend Nico Collins ahead of his final year of eligibility on the rookie deal. He also was part of the foundation that realized trading for Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon was the best course of action rather than trying to land him in free agency following a potential release from the Cincinnati Bengals.
“The ready-to-win Texans made big moves in free agency and via trade this past season, led in part by Debick’s efforts in pro personnel,” The Athletic wrote.
“Debick also played a key role in bringing in new offensive coordinator Nick Caley, a former Rams assistant who was among the top candidates in this coaching cycle.”
The Texans own the No. 25 pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.