DeMeco Ryans Applauds J.J. Watt For 'Well Deserved' Texans Ring Of Honor Induction
HOUSTON — When DeMeco Ryans was in the running for the Houston Texans' coaching vacancy, nearly every Houston Texans alumnus displayed their support. But out of all the former players who showcased their adoration for Ryans, J.J. Watt was one of his most prominent supporters.
Five months later as coach of the Texans, Ryans had an opportunity to return the adoration to Watt upon hearing the news of his Ring of Honor introduction, set for a Week 4 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 1.
"J.J. Watt is a man who represents everything I try to instill in the players that we want," Ryans said. "We know the player J.J. was. It was always important to him to be the best at what he did."
Ryans and Watt played one season together as teammates. It came during Watt's rookie season in 2011 when the Texans finished the year with a 10-6 record. Ryans said what he remembered most about Watt was the work ethic he brought to practice as he strived to be the best player within Houston's locker room.
But beyond Watt's on-field accolades as a three-time Defensive Player of the Year winner and five First-Team All-Pro honors, Ryans said the Ring of Honor induction also illustrates his impact on Houston's community.
As the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Ryans was a part of Watt's final career game.
The 49ers closed their regular season with a 38-13 victory over Watt and the Arizona Cardinals. As Watt walked off the field for the last time, Ryans said it was a "special moment" to witness the fans at Levi's Stadium Salute his former teammate with a standing ovation.
"It was always important for him to be the best at what he did," Ryans said. "Congratulations J.J. — well deserved."
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