Alec Elijah

AlecElijah@RoundtableIO

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Alec Elijah is a daily contributor on 49ersRoundtable as well as other channels around the NFL. Outside of RTB, Alec covers College Football and is an NFL Draft Analyst for Pro Football Sports Network. Find him on all socials @CFBAlecElijah

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DeMeco Ryans Set to Takeover Defensive Playcalling

Following the Houston Texans 0-4 start to the season, head coach DeMeco Ryans has announced that he will be calling the defensive plays moving forward for his team.Oct 9, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Mario Edwards Jr. Out for Season

Texans DT Mario Edwards Jr. has been moved to the team's IR after tearing his ACL, which will likely sideline him for the remainder of the season.Oct 1, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Nico Collins Out in Week 3

Nico Collins is listed as DNP against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 3.Sep 25, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Foster Moreau Opens Up on Texans Decision: ‘It Just Felt Right’

After spending the past three seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Foster Moreau entered free agency expecting change. But what stood out during his search wasn’t scheme or stats, it was leadership. Once he connected with Texans HC Demeco Ryans, the decision became clear almost immediately. “DeMeco seems awesome,” Moreau said during a recent Texans All-Access appearance. “Strong handshake, strong personality, and a strong leader for this team and this city.” That first impression carried weight. Ryans has quickly built a reputation as one of the most relatable and respected voices in the league, and that presence is clearly resonating with incoming players.Mar 27, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Former Texans RB Dameon Pierce Lands with Eagles

A familiar face is on the move, as former Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce has found a new home. Pierce agreed to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, giving the former Texans starter a chance to reset his career in a new environment. Pierce, 26, was a fourth-round pick by Houston in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Florida and quickly became a fan favorite during his rookie season.  While his time in Houston didn’t end the way many hoped, Pierce’s toughness and early production won’t soon be forgotten by Texans fans. A change of scenery could be exactly what he needs to rediscover his impact at the NFL level.Mar 20, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Texans Strengthen Secondary with Reed Blankenship Signing

The Houston Texans made a notable addition to their secondary in free agency, signing veteran safety Reed Blankenship to bolster the defense ahead of the 2026 season. Blankenship, who spent his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, has become a dependable presence in the defensive backfield over the past few seasons. Known for his instincts, tackling ability, and steady coverage skills, the former undrafted free agent carved out a reputation as one of the league’s more reliable safeties. Houston has been aggressive this offseason as it looks to strengthen a defense that showed flashes but lacked consistency in 2025. Adding Blankenship gives the Texans a versatile defensive back who can play deep safety, step into the box, and contribute in pass coverage against tight ends and slot receivers.Mar 13, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Houston Texans Planning Contract Restructure for Derek Stingley Jr.

The Houston Texans are preparing to restructure the contract of star cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. as the team looks to create additional salary cap space before the start of the upcoming free agency period. Stingley signed a three-year, $90 million extension with Houston, making him the highest-paid cornerback in the league at the time. However, the Texans are now expected to adjust the structure of that deal in order to give the front office more flexibility this offseason. The restructure would likely involve converting a large portion of Stingley’s $21.595 million base salary into a signing bonus. By spreading that bonus over the remaining years of his contract, Houston can significantly lower the current $27.1 million cap hit tied to the All-Pro corner for the 2026 season.Mar 6, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Houston Texans Move On From Quarterbacks Coach Jerrod Johnson

The Houston Texans have parted ways with quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson in a somewhat surprising late-offseason decision, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The move comes after the Texans opted to retain offensive coordinator Nick Caley despite quarterback C.J. Stroud’s uneven season, which ended with a disappointing divisional playoff loss to the New England Patriots. Johnson spent three seasons guiding Houston’s quarterbacks, playing a key role in Stroud’s early development and the evolution of the passing game. Before joining the Texans, Johnson served as assistant quarterbacks coach with the Minnesota Vikings, steadily building his reputation as a rising offensive mind. He also interviewed for multiple offensive coordinator openings over the past two hiring cycles, signaling growing league-wide interest in his coaching trajectory.Feb 27, 2026

TexansRoundtable

DeMeco Ryans Earns League-Wide Recognition with Competition Committee Promotion

DeMeco Ryans is adding another line to his growing résumé, and this time, it extends beyond the sidelines of the Houston Texans. The rising head coach has been appointed to the NFL Competition Committee for the 2026 season, a prestigious league role that places him among the NFL’s most influential decision-makers. The appointment won’t significantly alter Ryans' responsibilities in Houston. He will continue leading the Texans while contributing league-wide insight, including meetings at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. There, he’ll collaborate with coaches, executives, and stakeholders to help shape the game’s future.Feb 20, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Ryan Fitzpatrick Sparks Trade Debate Surrounding C.J. Stroud

Trade chatter around Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud picked up momentum this week after former Texans QB Ryan Fitzpatrick offered a surprising take on the young passer’s future. Fitzpatrick, who spent the 2014 season in Houston, suggested Stroud could be a valuable trade asset if the Texans believe their long-term outlook might not improve quickly enough. Fitzpatrick said he has watched Houston closely and questioned whether the team will be significantly better next season or even in two years. He added that multiple franchises would likely be willing to part with major draft capital, potentially two first-round picks plus additional assets, to acquire a quarterback with Stroud’s talent and upside. For now, any trade talk remains speculative. Stroud is still viewed as a foundational player in Houston, but Fitzpatrick’s comments highlight how quickly perceptions can shift in the NFL. If the Texans ever entertained such a move, it would reshape both their roster strategy and the league’s quarterback landscape.Feb 12, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Texans Lose Offensive Assistant Pat Reilly to Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to reshape their coaching staff under head coach Mike McCarthy, announcing the addition of Pat Reilly as a defensive quality control coach. Reilly joins Pittsburgh after spending the 2025 season working on the offensive side of the ball with the Houston Texans, adding a versatile voice to the Steelers’ defensive staff. While in Houston, Reilly helped support a Texans team that made a strong postseason run, advancing to the Divisional Round after securing a playoff win over Pittsburgh. Before his stint with the Texans, Reilly built his foundation with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Feb 6, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Will Joe Mixon Be in Houston Next Season?

Joe Mixon has made it clear: his sights are firmly set on returning for the 2026 NFL season after a frustrating year lost to injury. The veteran running back, who missed all of last season with a lingering foot issue, recently signaled his intent with a pointed message on social media: “All 26’. Vengeance.” The post, shared on his Instagram story, featured Mixon alongside Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud following a win, immediately sparking speculation about his future in Houston. The biggest question now is whether that comeback will come in a Texans uniform. As Houston prepares for the 2026 season, Mixon’s message is unmistakable: he believes his story isn’t finished, and he’s determined to remind the league of the player he still knows he can be.Jan 30, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Texans Linked to Caleb Banks in Latest PFSN Mock Draft

The Houston Texans are once again being connected to interior defensive line help, with Pro Football Sports Network (PFSN) projecting Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks to Houston at No. 28 overall in a recent mock draft. Banks brings a rare blend of size and movement skills to the middle of the line. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 329 pounds, his first-step quickness and raw strength allow him to drive blockers backward and collapse the pocket from the inside. While a foot injury will factor into the evaluation process, his earlier game tape tells a compelling story. Jan 23, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Stephen A. Smith Pumps the Brakes on C.J. Stroud Hype as Texans Enter the Spotlight

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith offered a measured, skeptical take on Stroud’s playoff readiness, making it clear that while the talent is obvious, the proof still needs to come when the stakes are highest. According to Stephen A., postseason football operates on a razor-thin margin for error. One poor decision, one late throw, or one lapse in ball security can abruptly end a season. While Stroud has flashed brilliance, Smith points to moments where the quarterback put the ball in harm’s way, arguing that those are the exact opportunities elite playoff defenses are designed to exploit. Against veteran units that disguise coverages and capitalize on hesitation, mistakes rarely go unpunished. Smith remains cautiously unconvinced that Houston’s young star is ready to carry a team through the NFL’s toughest battles.Jan 15, 2026

TexansRoundtable

DeMeco Ryans Tips His Cap to Mike Tomlin Ahead of High-Stakes Playoff Clash

As the Houston Texans prepare for their Wild Card showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers, head coach DeMeco Ryans made it clear his respect for Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin runs deep, shaped by years of admiration and personal interaction. Ryans praised Tomlin as one of the NFL’s enduring standards, pointing to his consistency, leadership, and ability to keep Pittsburgh competitive year after year. To him, Tomlin’s longevity with one franchise speaks volumes about his understanding of how to build, lead, and win. The Texans coach also highlighted the personal side of their relationship. Ryans noted that he and Tomlin stay connected through league meetings, describing Tomlin as a constant source of positivity and encouragement throughout Ryans’ coaching journey. All respect aside, Ryans knows sentiment will fade once Monday night arrives. With playoff stakes at their highest, Ryans expects a bruising battle, especially against a Pittsburgh defense known for setting the tone with its relentless pass rush.Jan 8, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Texans Defensive Coach Emerges as Giants Coaching Candidate

A fresh name is surfacing in the New York Giants’ head-coaching search, and it comes from one of the NFL’s most dominant defenses. Houston Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke is expected to draw interest from the Giants once interviews begin following the season, according to ESPN’s Jordan Ranaan. Burke has played a key role in Houston’s rise to contender status. The 11–5 Texans boast the league’s top-ranked defense, leading the NFL in points, yards, and first downs allowed while remaining in the hunt for a third straight AFC South crown. Since DeMeco Ryans took over as head coach in 2023, Burke’s unit has become the backbone of the team’s success. The 49-year-old brings decades of experience, having coached since 1998 and worked at the NFL level since 2004. He previously served as defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins and shares familiarity with Giants general manager Joe Schoen from their time together in Miami, a connection that could factor into New York’s decision-making.Jan 1, 2026

TexansRoundtable

Texans Derek Stingley Earns AFC Defensive Player of the Week Honors

Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. delivered a performance to remember in Week 16, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors after a game that underscored his reputation as one of the NFL’s premier defensive playmakers. Stingley wasted no time making his presence felt against the Las Vegas Raiders. On the third play from scrimmage, he jumped a pass and returned the interception 31 yards for a touchdown, igniting the Texans early and setting the tone for the rest of the game. The score marked Houston’s first interception return for a touchdown this season and the first of Stingley’s NFL career. He added two tackles and a forced fumble, finishing as the only AFC player to record a pick-six in Week 16. He became just the third player in the NFL this season to tally both a forced fumble and an interception return for a touchdown in the same game. Stingley’s season-long impact has been just as impressive. He has totaled 32 tackles, 13 passes defensed, four interceptions, and one forced fumble while starting all 15 games for a Texans defense that leads the league in yards allowed per game (272.3) and points allowed per game (16.6).  This award marks the two-time Pro Bowler’s third AFC Defensive Player of the Week honor, all earned in December. Dec 25, 2025

TexansRoundtable

Texans Add Safety Depth to Secondary

The Houston Texans found value in an unexpected opening, moving quickly to add safety Kaevon Merriweather after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a surprising roster decision. With their secondary stretched thin by turnover and injuries, Houston viewed Merriweather as a timely depth piece rather than a last-minute flier. The Texans’ defensive backfield has been in near-constant motion this season. After parting ways with offseason trade acquisition C.J. Gardner-Johnson in Week 3, Houston lost M.J. Stewart and later Jaylen Reed to injuries, forcing the team to reshuffle responsibilities on the back end. Merriweather arrives as a steady presence who can help stabilize that rotation while providing immediate special teams support. Merriweather appeared in 12 games this season, finishing with eight tackles while playing primarily on special teams, where he logged 192 of his 207 snaps.  As Houston prepares to host the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 16, Merriweather gives the Texans experienced depth at a position that has demanded constant adjustment.Dec 19, 2025

TexansRoundtable

NFL Hands Down Indefinite Suspension to Texans Minority Owner Javier Loya

The NFL has indefinitely suspended Houston Texans minority owner Javier Loya and issued a $500,000 fine, concluding a lengthy investigation into allegations surrounding his personal conduct. The league confirmed the decision Thursday, determining that Loya violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy following accusations of rape and sexual abuse tied to two gatherings at his Louisville home in May 2022. Loya was initially charged in 2023, but the legal case shifted significantly in 2024 when he accepted a misdemeanor plea for “harassment with intent to annoy.” Seven other charges were dismissed, bringing an end to the criminal proceedings but not to the league’s independent inquiry. After reviewing the case, the NFL imposed one of its most serious disciplinary measures, stating that Loya may apply for reinstatement no earlier than June 2026.Dec 12, 2025

TexansRoundtable

Texans Sign Former Buffalo Bills Cornerback

The Houston Texans have signed former Buffalo Bills cornerback Ja’Marcus Ingram, claiming him off waivers and adding him to their 53-man roster. The move ends any possibility of a quick reunion between Ingram and the Bills, who had just parted ways with him earlier in the week. Ingram will now head to Houston, having produced six total tackles over seven contests with the Bills. To create space for the addition, Houston placed another former Bills defender, defensive tackle Tim Settle Jr., on Injured Reserve.Dec 5, 2025

TexansRoundtable