
The Houston Texans found their head coach in DeMeco Ryans. They’ll now search for a new quarterback to lead a turnaround.
Finding the right passer is paramount to Ryans’ coaching success, but it’s not the only issue the former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator must address. Per KPRC 2 Houston’s Aaron Wilson, Ryans discussed the team’s current situation under center.
“We understand we have one quarterback here on our roster [Davis Mills], and we have to add more to that position,” Ryans said. “The quarterback is one piece.”
Of course, quarterback is an important piece, especially when a team lacks a strong one.
Mills played fairly well as a rookie, posting a 66.8 completion percentage and 88.8 quarterback rating in 2021. However, the former third-round pick regressed this season, completing 61 percent of his passes with a 78.8 passer rating.
He tied Dak Prescott with an NFL-high 15 interceptions in as many games.
Mills likely isn’t Houston’s long-term answer under center, and the Texans can draft his replacement with the No. 2 pick. Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud and Alabama’s Bryce Young are among the top quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft.
While the Texans picked Ryans to remedy a lethargic defense that’s allowed the sixth-most points in three straight years, they need to choose the right signal-caller. Houston has finished each of the last two seasons 30th or worse in total offense and scoring.
Ryans made his expectations clear for his next quarterback — and all other players — Thursday when saying that there are “no energy vampires allowed.”
‘It’s not about egos, it’s not about being selfish,” he said. “It’s about the team.’