While the Houston Texans’ defense remains elite at everyone postion, the area with the fewest concerns is the secondary.

And given another year in the system, plus a healthy offseason from two young players, it only should continue to flourish in 2026.

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The Texans used two draft picks last April on cornerback Jaylin Smith and safety Jaylen Reed. Smith, a third-round pick out of USC, was expected to be used as Houston’s third corner behind Pro Bowlers Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter. He saw action in four games and had six tackles plus a fumble recovery before his season was cut short.

Reed, a sixth-round pick out of Penn State, was expected to serve as depth behind C.J. Garnder-Johnson and Pro Bowler Calen Bullock, but saw his role expand during the regular season after the former was cut three games into the campaign. Known for his hard-hitting demeanor in college, Reed played in seven games and one start matchup, recording 11 tackles and a fumble recovery before dealing with a forearm injury.

Now, both defenders are competing for playing time behind starters and are slated to be solid special-teams players for Frank Ross’ unit. They’ve also caught the attention of head coach DeMeco Ryans through the early stages of OTAs.

“I feel like Jaylin has taken a really nice jump in his second year,” Ryans said. He’s put in the work. Although he was down with injury, he’s come back stronger, looks faster. He’s making a lot of plays out here on the practice field. So, I’m excited and encouraged by his development of what he’s been able to do.”

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Reed is expected to have an expanded role on special teams, serving as the primary blocker for the punter on coverage and a factor on the inside rush for kickoffs.

“He’s been lights out when it comes to his communication, starting with the punt team communication for us, put a lot on their plate,” Ryans said of Reed. “He’s handled it really well, done a great job in the meetings and also making it translate to the field. So, I just love to see the growth. That’s what is expected. I’m excited about that as a coach to see what they’re going to do this season.”

The Texans return to practice on Thursday in front of the media.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans second-year DBs receive high praise from DeMeco Ryans following OTAs