Top 2 LBs test positive for COVID

The Texans look likely to go without their top 2 LBs for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars. Christian Kirksey and Kamu Grugier-Hill have each tested positive for COVID. We’ll see whether either LB has a shot to return. Kevin Pierre-Louis and Neville Hewitt figure to lead the LB playing time if they dont

The Texans are hiring Demeco Ryans as HC, according to multiple reports. This has been assumed for at least a few days now, and it makes loads of sense for Houston. Ryans was a team leader across 6 years as MLB with the Texans, before finishing his playing career with 4 seasons in Philadelphia. He spent the past 6 years on San Francisco's coaching staff, including the past 2 as DC. Ryans piloted a 49ers defense that ranked 3rd and 1st in yards allowed the past 2 seasons; 9th and 1st in points allowed. He inherits a Texans roster that needs plenty of work. But Houston does hold 5 picks among the 1st 3 rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft, including the #2 and #12 overall selections. Expect the Texans to select their next QB in Round 1, with Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud and Will Levis all in the current early-Round 1 discussion. The 49ers defense, meanwhile, should be fine. San Francisco ranked 6th and 2nd in Football Outsiders' defensive DVOA the 2 years before Ryans took the helm.

Texans S Justin Reid came away from Sunday's loss to the 49ers with "slight" ankle and knee injuries, according to Aaron Wilson of Sportstalk 790 in Houston. DE Jonathan Greenard also left the game with a shoulder injury. We'll see about the status for each player this week.