The Houston Texans are trying to build a Super Bowl contender. In just two seasons under head coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud, the franchise has transformed from an afterthought into a legitimate contender.
For the second straight year, Houston finished 10-7 and secured the AFC South title, proving that their early success was no fluke. However, despite their impressive record, the Texans’ offense left plenty to be desired.
Stroud played well even though his numbers regressed (three fewer touchdowns and seven more interceptions), but Houston struggled to protect him, finishing 28th in PFSN’s Offense+ ranking with a 64.8 (D). With the team looking to break the 10-win barrier and win some playoff games in 2025, Ryans may have his sights set on a dynamic wide receiver to elevate the offense.
DeMeco Ryans Shares His Thoughts on Deebo Samuel Sr.
With reports percolating about the San Francisco 49ers potentially moving on from Deebo Samuel Sr., Ryans was asked about the star receiver, and his response was short — but telling.
“Always interested in good players, and he’s a good player.”
DeMeco Ryans on Deebo Samuel being available:
"Always interested in good players, and he's a good player."
via: @NBCS49ers pic.twitter.com/geMQ76lgEX
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) February 25, 2025
Ryans, who spent several years coaching in San Francisco before taking over in Houston, is well aware of what Samuel brings to the table. At his peak, the 49ers WR is one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the NFL. In 2021, he had 1,770 total yards and 14 touchdowns, redefining the “wide back” role by thriving as both a receiver and a runner.
However, injuries and inconsistency have slowed him down since. Samuel’s 2024 season saw a dip in production, finishing with 806 receiving yards and four touchdowns — a significant drop-off from his All-Pro numbers just a few years prior.
Would Samuel Be the Houston Texans’ Missing Piece?
The Texans’ offense, while promising, has some clear weaknesses. Protection issues forced Stroud into difficult situations far too often, and the lack of a true No. 1 playmaker limited the unit’s explosiveness.
Adding Samuel would immediately give Houston a versatile weapon who can create plays after the catch and take pressure off Stroud.
The biggest question is cost.
Samuel is set to make over $15 million in 2025, and the 49ers won’t move him for cheap. Houston would have to weigh whether his playmaking ability is worth the price — especially given his injury history. But for a team on the rise, adding a proven game-changer could be the move that pushes them closer to becoming Super Bowl contenders.
If the Texans do decide to make a serious push for Samuel, it could be one of the most intriguing moves of the offseason.