Houston, we have the playoffs back in the Bayou City!
The Texans have been one of the NFL’s best storylines all season long thanks to the success of first year head coach DeMeco Ryans. Texans Legend Andre Johnson knows all about playoff fever in Houston. He’s happy it’s back after several lean years.
“It’s great, the city is excited and the energy has been amazing,” Johnson told KPRC 2 at NRG Stadium. “Even after the Colts game fans came to my watch party and the energy was great. Everyone is excited and ready to get to Saturday.”
Johnson, who is a regular around NRG Stadium these days, sat down again with KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy on Thursday ahead of the Texans playoff opener against the Cleveland Browns.
“It’s fun to come to the games to watch the team play and compete. The atmosphere in NRG is different , more people in the seats and that’s what you want to see,” said Johnson.
“We had lost a lot of support after 2-14 seasons and people came here with trash bags on their heads so to be a part of it and help build it and see where it is now it’s a lot of fun. We can only go up from here and the future is very bright.
Johnson couldn’t be more pleased with the success that has come this season not only for the organization but also for Head Coach DeMeco Ryans. Johnson made it clear to Cal McNair when the last search began that DeMeco would be the right fit.
“To me it’s not surprising. Earlier interview this season I said don’t be surprised. Knowing DeMeco what type of person he is, how he can get men to play for him. I’m not surprised but very proud of him.”
“It’s more about giving players confident and DeMeco is that type of guy. You’ll not go into a game and not feel confident against that opponent. In San Francisco those guys played with confidence and swagger. They were very prepared in all of their games. You want to see those guys in the league (Coaches) have success so just to see what he’s doing is truly amazing.”
“Before hiring the new coach I told him (Cal McNair) some things I look for and said the next person we bring in we need to make sure that the players can relate to,” said Johnson.
" I never told him a name of who I would hire as a coach but he made the right decision !”
Now all eyes are on the Texans next step and that is finding a way to beat the Browns on Saturday in their wildcard game. Johnson knows one thing and that is simple. When CJ Stroud’s on the field the Texans always have a chance.
“When CJ is on the field it’s just different. He’s a hell of a player, great person, great kid and was raised the right way. He’s very knowledgeable about football so I enjoy seeing him on that field so I think we’ll get our lick back this week!”
