As the Texans host the 49ers Sunday, DeMeco Ryans credits mentor Kyle Shanahan and reflects on coaching lessons, communication and contrasts.

Ever since Kyle Shanahan took over as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, there has been a certain section of fans who have waited for the other shoe to drop.

DeMeco Ryans had instant success as an NFL rookie in Houston. 49ers coaches Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh and Johnny Holland got a first-hand look.

The 49ers (5-2) will take on the NFL’s stingiest scoring defense Sunday in Houston while Robert Saleh must patch up another hole in the Niners’ defense.

Oct 19, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) celebrates after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images / Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The 49ers’ defense is coached by former Jets head coach Robert Saleh, who is known throughout NFL circles as one of the brightest defensive minds in the game. Saleh, a native of Michigan, has been linked to college football head coaching jobs recently during an NFL season that is still in full swing.

Left tackle Trent Williams is heading to his offseason home of Houston this week to lead the 49ers (5-2) against the Texans (2-4).

He does not have a game status listed as of now. No other RB is listed on the injury report for the 49ers. McCaffrey has a team-high132 carries for a team-high 465 yards (66.4 ypg). He has scored three TDs on the ground.