The Houston Texans’ new offensive coordinator Nick Caley is promoting assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich to offensive line coach, a person with knowledge of the move told the Chronicle.
It’s Caley’s first known move since getting the job over seven other candidates Monday. It will likely be the most important considering the Texans’ struggles in pass protection this past year.
Cole Popovich will move up to offensive line coach under new coordinator Nick Caley.
The Texans were one of the worst teams in pass protection last season, allowing 54 sacks, which was third-most in the NFL.
Article continues below this ad
Popovich’s promotion was always a possibility despite the unit’s struggles. Though Popovich’s contract was allowed to expire, coach DeMeco Ryans left open the possibility that he could return. However, it was always going to be up to the new play-caller, whom Ryans allowed to construct his own staff.
Popovich was first hired in 2023 as one of two assistant offensive line coaches. He was primarily responsible for the run-blocking, a source said, while assistant offensive line coach Zach Yenser was responsible for pass protection.
Though the Texans’ offensive line unit struggled this past year, two players said they liked and respected Popovich, and thought he taught technique well, which likely played a part in his promotion. The running game improved as Joe Mixon ran for 1,016 yards and was named to the Pro Bowl.
Article continues below this ad
KPRC was the first to report that Popovich could be promoted.
