Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans announced Wednesday that he'll handle defensive play-calling duties instead of coordinator Matt Burke following a disappointing 0-4 start to the season.
Ryans emphasized that his decision isn't an indictment of Burke's performance but rather an effort to energize the defense.
"It all starts with me," Ryans said. "Just to help spark things more, I'm going to take over the play calling for the defense."
He added: "No slight against coach Burke. He's done an outstanding job. Just want to make sure I can streamline communication in the best way possible."
Burke has been Ryans' only defensive coordinator since he became the Texans' head coach in 2023. Houston boasted the best defense last season, ranking first in yardage surrendered and second in points allowed.
However, what was expected to be another strong unit in 2026 has struggled mightily out of the gate. The Texans are giving up 27.3 points per game - 26th in the NFL - while ranking 20th in yardage allowed. Houston has already surrendered 30-plus points twice this season, compared to just once all of last year.
The Texans have a chance to get their first win of the season Sunday against the 0-4 Tennessee Titans.
