Texans QB Coach Jerrod Johnson Draws Dolphins' Interest for OC Role - What It Could Mean for C.J. Stroud and Houston’s Offense
Jerrod Johnson’s coaching star continues to rise - and now, the Miami Dolphins are taking notice.
The Houston Texans' quarterbacks coach has been requested for an interview with Miami for their open offensive coordinator position, a potential move that could ripple through both franchises. Johnson has been a key figure in Houston’s recent resurgence, and his potential departure would be felt most immediately by the player he’s helped shape from day one: C.J. Stroud.
Let’s break down what this means for both teams.
Johnson’s Impact in Houston
When DeMeco Ryans took over as head coach in 2023, he brought in a fresh staff - and Johnson was one of the most important additions. Since then, the Texans have been among the NFL’s most competitive teams, and Johnson’s fingerprints are all over their offensive development.
His work with C.J. Stroud during the quarterback’s rookie season was especially noteworthy.
Stroud hit the ground running in 2023, showing poise, accuracy, and decision-making that belied his age. Johnson played a central role in that early success, helping to translate Stroud’s college strengths into a pro-ready skill set.
But the road hasn’t been perfectly smooth. Over the last two seasons, Stroud has seen some regression.
Whether it’s been changes in offensive personnel, system tweaks, or the natural growing pains of a young quarterback, the production hasn’t always matched the promise of that rookie campaign. Still, Johnson has remained a steady presence, guiding Stroud through those adjustments and helping him navigate the evolving demands of the position.
That kind of developmental track record hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Why Miami Is Interested
The Dolphins are at a bit of a crossroads offensively. With the potential for a new starting quarterback in 2026 - and Quinn Ewers showing flashes late in the 2025 season - Miami is clearly looking for a coach who can mold young talent at the most important position on the field.
Enter Jerrod Johnson.
His ability to bring a rookie quarterback up to speed quickly is exactly what teams like the Dolphins are looking for. Johnson helped Stroud acclimate to the NFL game at a high level, even as the offensive scheme shifted between the 2024 and 2025 seasons. That adaptability - and his calm, developmental approach - could be a perfect match for a team preparing to break in a new signal-caller.
Johnson’s NFL coaching résumé is solid. He broke into the league with the 49ers in 2017, spent time with the Colts, and later joined Kevin O’Connell’s staff in Minnesota as assistant quarterbacks coach. That stint in Minnesota is where he caught Ryans’ attention, and it’s what led him to Houston - and now, potentially, to Miami.
What This Means for Houston
If Johnson does land the OC job in Miami, it would be a significant loss for the Texans. Continuity is critical for young quarterbacks, and Stroud has already had to adjust to changes in the offense over the last two years. Losing the coach who’s been with him since his NFL debut could present another hurdle in his development.
That said, a new voice in the quarterback room might also offer a fresh perspective - especially if Houston is looking to retool its offensive identity moving forward. Stroud is still one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the league, and the right coaching hire could help unlock the next stage of his growth.
But make no mistake: Johnson’s departure would leave a void. He’s been more than just a position coach - he’s been a bridge between the Texans’ coaching staff and their franchise quarterback. If he moves on, Houston will have some big shoes to fill.
The Bottom Line
Jerrod Johnson is on the verge of a major step up in his coaching career, and he’s earned it. His work with C.J. Stroud has made him one of the most intriguing young offensive minds in the league, and the Dolphins - a team potentially entering a new quarterback era - are taking notice.
For Houston, this could mark a turning point. Whether it’s another challenge for Stroud or an opportunity for growth depends on what happens next. But one thing’s clear: Johnson’s coaching trajectory is trending up, and the league is watching.