The Houston Texans entered the 2026 season expecting their defense to continue to be one of the best in football. Four games later, head coach DeMeco Ryans is making a significant change in an attempt to save Houston's season. Ryans is expected to take over defensive play-calling duties from defensive coordinator Matt Burke as the Texans attempt to climb out of a winless start, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The move puts Ryans back in a familiar position. Ryans called Houston's defensive plays during his first two seasons as head coach before handing those responsibilities to Burke early in the 2025 season. The change came after Houston opened last season 0-3, with Ryans looking to take a larger role overseeing the entire team.
The results were difficult to argue with. Houston shut out the Tennessee Titans in Burke's first regular-season game calling the defense and eventually finished the 2025 season ranked first in total defense and second in scoring defense. The Texans overcame their 0-3 start to finish 12-5 and reach the playoffs.
A year later, Houston finds itself searching for answers again. Only this time, the defense has been part of the problem. Through four games, the Texans have allowed 109 points, an average of 27.3 per game.
Opposing quarterbacks have completed 68.1 percent of their passes while throwing six touchdowns against just one interception. Houston has also allowed a 102.9 opposing passer rating. Those numbers represent a significant decline for a defense that entered the season with championship expectations.
Perhaps even more concerning has been Houston's inability to finish games. The Texans have held a fourth-quarter lead in three of their four losses, only to surrender a score later in the quarter. That problem was on full display Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys.
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