Texans Add Familiar Face to Offensive Staff: James Ferentz Joins Coaching Ranks
The Houston Texans are bringing back a familiar name - this time on the coaching side. Former NFL offensive lineman James Ferentz is joining the Texans’ offensive staff, where he’s expected to work closely with the tight ends, according to a league source.
Ferentz, 36, isn’t just another hire - he’s someone who knows the Texans organization firsthand. He originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent with Houston and spent two seasons with the team. Now, after a playing career that spanned nearly a decade and included two Super Bowl rings, he’s stepping into the next chapter of his football journey on the sidelines.
His path to coaching has been shaped by a wealth of experience across some of the NFL’s most respected organizations. Ferentz played for both the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos, including time under current Texans offensive line coach Cole Popovich. That connection - along with others on Houston’s staff - makes this move feel more like a reunion than a new beginning.
Ferentz wrapped up his playing career after the 2023 season, having appeared in 61 games with 10 starts over eight seasons. His resume includes two Super Bowl titles with the Patriots and a championship run with the Broncos, where he played 14 games during their title-winning season led by Peyton Manning.
Before his NFL days, Ferentz was a standout at the University of Iowa, where he started his final 38 games at center under the guidance of his father, longtime Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors and built the kind of football IQ that’s now translating into coaching.
After a brief year away from the game, Ferentz returned to the NFL with the Texans' practice squad and was eventually claimed by Denver. That stint helped launch the most stable stretch of his career, leading to six seasons in New England. During that time, he worked alongside several current Texans staffers, including offensive coordinator Nick Caley, senior offensive assistant Jerry Schuplinski, and general manager Nick Caserio.
For Houston, this hire brings in someone who’s not only well-connected within the building but also brings championship experience and a lineman’s perspective to the offensive side of the ball. As the Texans continue building out their coaching staff, Ferentz’s addition adds another layer of familiarity, leadership, and football smarts to a team looking to take the next step in the AFC.