Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans made no secret of the priority for his defense ahead of Sunday’s AFC South matchup with the Indianapolis Colts.
It starts with Jonathan Taylor.
Speaking on Texans Radio (via Texans On SI), Ryans called Taylor an “all-world running back” and more.
"This guy here, man, wherever he touches the ball, like everybody has to be prepared. He can cut back and make you pay. So, if you're not disciplined backside with JT, he has such great vision to where he's going to find the open hole," Ryans said.
The praise -- and concern due to that -- is backed by Taylor’s history as one of the more productive backs in football from year to year, along with the success he's had, particularly as of late, against the Texans specifically.
Houston has been stout against the run so far in 2026. The Texans have allowed 171 rushing yards through two games, an average of 85.5 per contest, which ranks sixth in the NFL.
Nonetheless, the Colts will need Taylor, who has been leaned on heavily to begin the season, and remains a clear avenue for controlling games.
With Indianapolis and Houston both entering Week 3 at 0-2, Taylor’s ability to break through one of the league’s stout run defenses could determine whether the Colts actually get into the win column.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Texans coach highlights key priority for defense in matchup vs. Colts
