In a show of leadership and camaraderie, former Houston Texans head coach David Culley, who was dismissed by the organization in early 2022 after just one season at the helm, has reached out to current head coach DeMeco Ryans with a personal message concerning the team’s future and direction.According to sources close to the organization, Culley’s message was one of encouragement, respect, and shared understanding of the pressures that come with leading a franchise in transition. Culley acknowledged the significant strides the Texans have made under Ryans and expressed his full support for the coaching staff and players as they continue to rebuild the team’s identity.
“You’ve got them headed in the right direction. Keep pushing, and don’t let the outside noise shake your foundation,” Culley reportedly said in part of the message.
Culley, 68, was hired in 2021 amid a turbulent period for the Texans, including the Deshaun Watson controversy and a depleted roster. Despite leading the team to a 4–13 record in his lone season, many in the football world respected his steady hand and leadership under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. His firing drew criticism at the time, with many viewing it as premature.
Now, with Ryans—a former Texans linebacker and fan favorite—leading the team into a new era, Culley’s outreach represents a rare moment of professional solidarity in the high-pressure world of NFL coaching. Ryans, hired in 2023, has already instilled a renewed sense of energy and optimism within the franchise, showing promise with an improved defense and a young core of players.
Though the full contents of Culley’s message remain private, insiders describe it as “uplifting and heartfelt.” It serves as a reminder that behind the Xs and Os, there’s a shared brotherhood among NFL coaches, built on mutual respect and empathy.