TRAGIC TO HEROIC: Texans Head Coach DeMeco Ryans Becomes Guardian of Abandoned Newborn
Houston, TX – July 7, 2025
In a deeply moving and unexpected turn of events, Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has officially become the legal guardian of a newborn baby who was abandoned last month at a Houston fire station. The story, which first broke through local sources over the weekend, has now captured national attention and sparked widespread praise for the 40-year-old coach.
The infant, a healthy baby boy, was discovered on June 29 outside Fire Station 48 in southwest Houston. According to authorities, the baby had been left under Texas’ “Safe Haven” law, which allows parents to leave an unharmed infant at a designated location without facing prosecution.
Next to the baby was a note that reportedly read, “Please give my baby a better life than I can.” The note did not include a name or any further identifying information.
Shortly after the child was taken into state custody, Ryans — a father of three and a longtime advocate for youth and community development — expressed interest in providing care for the child. According to sources within Child Protective Services (CPS), Ryans contacted the agency personally after learning of the case through a team staffer.
> “Coach Ryans approached this with a quiet heart and a clear intention,” said Amanda King, spokesperson for CPS. “He didn’t make it about his status or platform. He wanted to give this child love, stability, and a home.”
Ryans was granted temporary custody late last week. As of July 5, a family court in Harris County confirmed that full legal guardianship has been awarded to Ryans, who has since named the baby Josiah, a name he says represents hope and healing.
Ryans addressed the media on Monday in a brief but emotional statement at NRG Stadium.
> “When I heard about this baby’s story, I knew in my heart I had to act,” Ryans said. “This child was left with nothing and no one. I can’t imagine the pain of the mother who had to make that choice. But I also believe every child deserves to be safe, loved, and given a future. I’m just doing what I believe is right.”
The NFL community has rallied around the coach. Texans players, as well as figures across the league, have shared supportive messages on social media.
> “Coach just changed a life forever,” said quarterback C.J. Stroud in a post. “That’s bigger than football.”
> “DeMeco Ryans is a role model in every sense of the word,” tweeted NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell. “His actions remind us what leadership truly looks like.”
According to Ryans, the baby is “healthy, smiling, and surrounded by love.” He said he plans to raise Josiah alongside his own children, with the full support of his wife and extended family.
While Ryans declined further interviews, he ended his remarks with a powerful message:
> “This isn’t about being a hero. It’s about showing up. And I’ll keep showing up for him — every single day.”
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