Houston Texans’ Azeez Al-Shaair Reveals Thoughts on Reuniting with Coach DeMeco Ryans

A year ago, when he left San Francisco, Azeez Al-Shaair considered signing with the Houston Texans as a free agent. However, a better offer came with the Tennessee Titans, where Al-Shaair signed a one-year deal.

Twelve months later, Al-Shaair was once again a free agent. But this time, the veteran linebacker decided it was time to join the Texans on a three-year, $34 million deal.

The Texans’ success in 2023 played a role in Al-Shaair’s decision to become a free agent. However, reuniting with coach DeMeco Ryans was the main reason Al-Shaair was interested in Houston over the previous two years.

READ MORE: Texans’ Will Anderson Jr. Reveals Thoughts on Danielle Hunter: ‘He’s Unreal’

“The one thing I tell guys is, ‘Coaches coach because they don’t know how to play,’” Al-Shaair said during his appearance on Locked On Texans. “If he (Ryans) could, he’d go out there and play tomorrow. He takes so much time to make sure you know what you’re doing. To him, that’s everything. He’s the best teacher I could have asked for in those early years.”

Al-Shaair began his career as an undrafted free agent with the 49ers in 2019. His rookie season coincided with Ryans’ second season as San Francisco’s linebackers coach. The two sides began to develop a relationship, and Ryans’ teachings helped lay the foundation for Al-Shaair’s career.

Ryans’ teachings helped Al-Shaair have a breakout year in his final season with the Titans, recording 163 tackles, six quarterback hits and 2.0 sacks.

“With Azeez, the first thing I remember is he was one of the smartest players I ever interviewed,” Ryans said. “I interviewed him at the Combine a few years ago, he was a very sharp player, he could draw the whole defense, talk about blitzes in and out.

“He’s a leader of men, and I’m excited to have him on our roster and see him continue to build relationships with all the guys in our locker room. I think a lot of guys have really looked up to Azeez and see that he has a lot to bring to the table.”

READ MORE: Exclusive: Nico Collins’ Road to Greatness Leads to Best Season of His Career

Stay tuned to TexansGameday for more FREE Houston Texans Coverage throughout the off-season.

Be sure to subscribe to our daily podcast Texans Locked Down Today!

Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24.