Texans Risk Losing Another Key Defensive Coach Amid Cardinals Pursuit

The Houston Texans’ impressive 2023 defensive rise has turned the coaching staff into a hot commodity, and now another assistant may be on the verge of being poached. While defensive passing game coordinator Dino Vasso reportedly turned down the Arizona Cardinals, the Texans still face the real threat of losing yet another key defensive voice.

That risk comes at a time when expectations in Houston are soaring. After a playoff run powered by an aggressive defensive identity, several coaches on DeMeco Ryans’ staff have become targets for teams seeking fresh leadership. Vasso’s decision to stay offers some relief, but the door isn’t fully closed on turnover elsewhere.

What’s happening with the Texans’ defensive staff?

According to recent reporting, Arizona approached Vasso for an elevated role but was ultimately turned down. While that’s great news for the Texans’ secondary development, the Cardinals’ search continues—meaning additional Houston assistants remain candidates.

The Texans already lost defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire to the Cleveland Browns earlier in the offseason. That move created the first major defensive hole for Ryans to fill, and more departures could disrupt continuity in a unit that thrived under consistent messaging and scheme alignment.

Why it matters for Houston

Coaching stability is crucial for a team built on a young core. Will Anderson Jr., Derek Stingley Jr., and Jalen Pitre all benefited from consistent guidance in 2023. Any additional staff shakeups could slow the growth of a defense that finally reached its stride.

DeMeco Ryans’ system depends on precise communication and technical development. Assistants who know his philosophy help translate that vision onto the field. With big expectations entering 2024, losing another defensive coach would mean more than just a staffing change—it would affect preparation, scheme progression, and potentially the pace of player development.

What’s next?

The Texans will continue monitoring movement around the league as the coaching carousel spins. If another team extends an offer to a Houston assistant, Ryans must act quickly to keep the defensive structure intact.

Given the offseason buzz, it’s clear the Texans’ transformation has not gone unnoticed. Other teams want a piece of what Houston built—the challenge is keeping enough of the architects in place to build on last season’s success.

This article is a summary of reporting by Toro Times. Read the full story here.