New Houston Texans veteran DL poised to add leadership to defense

The Houston Texans are coming off a 10-7 season. They did this after going 3-13-1 a few seasons ago. Rookie quarterback CJ Stroud and first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans have been instrumental in the team’s turnaround.

Due to the turnaround, the Texans have decided to go all out to build a Super Bowl contending team while Stroud is on his rookie contract. In doing so, the Texans have brought in additional star talent, some of whom are veterans, to help this team take another step forward.

One of the players signed by the team is defensive lineman Denico Autry. The veteran defender has spent time during his career lining up in both the middle and end. It’s unclear where he’ll play for the Texans this upcoming season, but he’ll be ready either way.

“Just put the ball down,” Autry said. “I just want to play ball. It does not matter.

READ MORE: CJ Stroud Compares Nico Collins To Houston Texans Legend: ‘He’s Our Andre Johnson’

Obviously, Autry’s versatility is a plus for the team. He is proven to be capable of playing all around in the trenches, and the team can use his services regardless of the position.

Not only is he a versatile talent, but he is a veteran player who has been around the league. This will be valuable in the locker room as the team will face adversity in search of a deep playoff run. Ryans understands this as the team works through the offseason in preparation for training camp.

“As far as leadership, for me, leadership is about everyone. You want a good mix of guys, you want veteran guys where the rookies can talk to those guys. But also, for me, the rookies can also lead,” Ryans explained. of the addition of Autry as leader.

This is a team effort and leadership happens as a group. But you have to start somewhere. Autry can step in and set the tone as a leader, both through his words and his actions. His willingness to play anywhere on the defensive line is a great example of his ability to be a leader from the start.

“It’s just a matter with all these guys, just tuning in and knowing how big of a group they can become,” Ryans continued. “And our D-line group, it’s a world of its own and they have a really good relationship in that room. Coach Rod (Wright) and Coach Nate (Ollie) have done a really good job with the group and I’m excited . to see how they continue to build that bond coming back to training camp.

The Texans winning games early and proving themselves to be a contending team will make things easier by making this group feel connected. They will also support a potentially elite offense. This should be a fun football season in Houston.

READ MORE: Houston Texans QB CJ Stroud on WR Stefon Diggs: ‘He’s been nothing but incredible’

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