Texans’ DeMeco Ryans reveals how 2nd-year OT can make a difference coming out of bye week

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans spoke on the potential impact of second-year offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery following the team's bye week. Ryans highlighted that Ersery has made positive contributions, particularly in protecting the edge, but emphasized the need for a more consistent "relentless motor" and finishing plays through the whistle.

The challenge for the young tackle is to maintain this level of effort, which could be crucial as the Texans aim to improve their offensive line play in the second half of the 2026 NFL season. Currently, Houston sits at 2-5 in the AFC South, trailing Jacksonville (5-2), but a stronger line could be key to turning their season around.

Ersery, who has started all seven games this season and played 458 offensive snaps, has earned a 57.8 overall grade from PFF, with a 66.7 pass-blocking grade, but has also allowed 22 pressures, including four sacks, underscoring the importance of increased consistency. The coaching staff has specifically urged Ersery to carry this mindset into the remainder of the season, presenting him with a chance to turn his coach's challenge into meaningful progress.