DeMeco Ryans' Trade Deadline Comments Could Signal More Moves for Texans

The Houston Texans may have given themselves something to think about heading into the NFL trade deadline after their dominant win over the 0-8 Los Angeles Chargers. While the victory provided plenty of reasons for optimism, there are still areas of the roster that could benefit from additional help before the deadline passes.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the possibility of making any moves when speaking with the media on Monday, making it clear that he and general manager Nick Caserio will evaluate their options before Tuesday's deadline.

"Trade deadline approaching, me and Nick will assess everything. We'll see what happens," Ryans said.

Ryans did not commit to making any moves, but his comments leave the door open for Houston to explore opportunities to improve the roster as they look toward the second half of the season.

One position worth monitoring is safety, especially with Reed Blankenship's uncertain timeline to return.

Blankenship, who was one of Houston's notable free-agent additions during the offseason, has been dealing with a hand injury that required surgery and remains in concussion protocol. When asked about his potential return, Ryans was noncommittal, leaving questions about when the veteran defensive back will be available again.

Having uncertainty surrounding a position that has struggled to start the season could encourage Houston to explore the market. The Texans need better production from their secondary, and adding another defensive back could provide insurance while Blankenship works his way back.

Running back is another position worth watching.

Houston's rushing attack has struggled, making it difficult for the offense to establish balance alongside C.J. Stroud and the passing game. While the Texans have invested heavily in the position, adding another explosive runner could bring a different dimension to the offense.

David Montgomery's situation makes that possibility even more interesting. The veteran running back has been working his way back from a groin injury that has kept him sidelined, and groin injuries tend to linger, leaving Houston without a bell-cow tailback that they went all-out to acquire.

Getting Montgomery back healthy would certainly help, but the Texans could still benefit from bringing in another back capable of moving the chains and providing a spark to the rushing attack.

With the trade deadline approaching, Caserio and Ryans have an opportunity to address some of those concerns rather than relying entirely on the current roster getting back healthy and staying available.

Ryans' comments suggest the organization is at least willing to evaluate what is available. Now, with the deadline quickly approaching, it will be interesting to see whether the Texans believe their latest victory is a reason to make a push for additional help or trust the guys already in the building.