DeMeco Ryans: Texans DEs Will Anderson, Danielle Hunter 'instantly have this connection'

Expectations are high for the Houston Texans. The hope is that the young core responsible for last season’s turnaround will blend well with the high-profile veteran additions, potentially making them a credible Super Bowl contender.

So far this spring, a quick chemistry has come to be on the defensive line, as Pro Bowlers Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter have teamed up to provide ample optimism and anticipation for the season ahead.

Texans’ second-year head coach, DeMeco Ryans, expressed his belief on Wednesday that Danielle and Will instantly formed the necessary connection to successfully cooperate and bounce ideas off each other. He emphasized the importance of Will being able to rely on Danielle, a seasoned league veteran, for advice based on his extensive experience, according to the team transcript.

Though Hunter brings ample experience to Houston, he’s hardly just a veteran add with wisdom to bestow upon Anderson, the reigning Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year.

Hunter, who is still under 30, was selected for his fourth Pro Bowl in his ninth and last season with the Minnesota Vikings. He achieved career-best statistics with 16.5 sacks, 23 tackles for loss (the highest in the NFL), 22 quarterback hits, 83 tackles, and four forced fumbles.

Hunter delivered an absolutely sensational performance for the Vikings in 2023, somewhat unnoticed. Meanwhile, about 1,200 miles to the south, Anderson was comfortably settling into his role with the Texans.

Anderson, also a Pro Bowler, achieved seven sacks, 22 QB hits, and 45 tackles in 15 games.

The prospect of how effective Hunter and Anderson could be as a team is thrilling.

Ryans believes that Anderson, who is 22, has much to learn from Hunter, who is 29, as they undoubtedly plan to meet at the quarterback in the 2024 season. Ryans is not one to exaggerate or heap praise unnecessarily, so his mention of their early rapport is significant.

“Ryans remarked, “I appreciate the rapport they’ve established. They’re collaborating effectively, and it’s fantastic to witness them both collapsing the pocket and finishing on the quarterback.”

While it may be a great advantage for the Texans, it could spell misfortune for their opponents.

Anderson and Hunter may be leading the Texans’ pass rush, but Houston appears to have ample depth in this area, at least theoretically.

With Anderson as the homegrown talent to build around, the Texans have added Hunter, Denico Autry, Foley Fatukasi, Mario Edwards and Tim Settle to bolster a remade defensive front.

Last season, Ryans’ defense was ranked joint 13th in sacks – a good performance but not exceptional. Despite its depth, it was not quite sufficient. Consequently, Ryans is pleased with the offseason and is optimistic about the future.

“I desire maximum depth on our defensive line,” stated Ryans. “Bringing in experienced players like Denico, Danielle, and Tim, who have played a significant amount of football and have proven their ability, makes the transition into our system quite smooth, particularly during the offseason program. Their presence has been beneficial to everyone as they grasp our play style, comprehend the role of the D-line and its importance to both our defense and the entire team.”

The depth is present, along with star rushers Anderson and Hunter who are poised to spearhead the team. The Hunter-Anderson duo, anticipated to be a formidable force in pass-rushing, has kicked off this spring in Houston on a high note.