Tommy Togiai has turned into one of the Texans’ most interesting defensive line stories, and DeMeco Ryans says the big man is already carrying that momentum into training camp.
After going from a 2024 practice squad elevation to a steady weekly starter on the interior last season, Togiai has given Houston something it didn’t always have from him earlier in his career: reliable production and a real role. The former fourth-round pick in 2021 hadn’t locked down consistent playing time in the NFL, and in 2023 he didn’t play a regular-season snap for the Cleveland Browns. Now, after a career-best year, he looks like a fixture for the Texans heading into 2026.
Ryans didn’t sound surprised by what he’s seeing. After Saturday’s practice, he pointed to Togiai’s routine, his strength work and the way that translates once the pads come on.
"Tommy is just always the most consistent guy," Ryans said after Saturday's practice. "He's always here working out.
He is always one of our best guys in the weight room and it shows on the field. When he steps on the field, he doesn't surprise us."
Ryans also highlighted a play Togiai made during practice and the awareness that has helped him stand out inside.
"He made a play today on a screen in the backfield. He's smart and aware, not just running with his eyes closed.
He's aware of what's going on. He has a really good feel, really great instincts inside.
That's what's allowed him to shine as a player for us. He's gotten better each and every year.
He's looking the best that I've seen him look here in training camp. I am excited to see the type of season that he'll have."
Last season, Togiai settled into the Texans’ DT2 spot next to Sheldon Rankins and made the most of it. He played in 15 regular-season games, started six, and posted career highs in tackles with 59 and tackles for loss with six. He also added 1.5 sacks and a fumble recovery.
That kind of rise matters even more now because Houston’s interior has been reinforced this offseason. The Texans added Logan Hall on a two-year deal, giving them a veteran who can move around inside and on the edge, and they used their first of two second-round picks in April’s draft on Kayden McDonald, bringing more athleticism and power to the middle.
For Togiai, the timing is ideal. He’s entering his third season with Houston in 2026 and doing it in a contract year, with a chance to set himself up for a meaningful payday next offseason.
And with Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter on the edge, the Texans’ defensive front already has the kind of star power that can wreck game plans. If Togiai keeps trending the way Ryans says he has, Houston’s line could once again be one of the league’s toughest groups to deal with.
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