Bessemer native and University of Alabama All-American linebacker DeMeco Ryans will be returning to the team he started his NFL career with – this time as head coach.

Since 2017, Ryans has worked his way up the defensive coaching staff at the San Francisco 49ers before being promoted to DC in 2021.

Ryans expressed his gratitude for his time at the 49ers as he sets his sights on H-town.

“I’d like to first thank the San Francisco 49ers, Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch for six incredible seasons where I grew as a coach and a man. I couldn’t be prouder of what we accomplished together, and I will always cherish the relationships I built there.

In the official release, Cal McNair, CEO of the Texans praised the move.

“We are thrilled to welcome DeMeco Ryans as the new head coach of the Houston Texans. For so many reasons, DeMeco is everything we are looking for in a leader and coach for our organization.

Ryans played outside linebacker at Alabama from 2002 to 2005 under coach Mike Shula. Getting his start on special teams as a backup linebacker, he was recognized for consistent growth over the seasons, ultimately being awarded SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2005.

He was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2006 NFL Draft to Houston and played for 9 years before starting his coaching career.

Ryans will be the first Texans head coach who played for the team in franchise history.