Houston Texans Co-Founder and Senior Chair Janice S. McNair Passes Away at 89

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The Houston Texans announced Tuesday that co-founder and Senior Chair Janice S. McNair passed away peacefully on July 14 at the age of 89.

Alongside her late husband, Bob McNair, Janice helped bring the National Football League back to Houston after the Oilers' departure, laying the foundation for what became the Texans franchise. While Bob often served as the public face of ownership, those inside the organization consistently described Janice as the heart of the franchise—someone whose warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith shaped the team's culture from its inception.

Following Bob McNair's passing in 2018, Janice became the Texans' principal owner before transitioning principal ownership to her son, Cal McNair, in 2024 while remaining the organization's Senior Chair.

In a statement released by the team, Cal McNair remembered his mother as someone who "found joy in bringing people together" and whose life was defined by faith, family, philanthropy, and football. The Texans also noted that she is survived by four children, 16 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

A Legacy Beyond Football

Janice McNair's impact reached well beyond the Texans organization.

Through the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation and numerous charitable initiatives, she and Bob donated more than $500 million to education, healthcare, medical research, disaster relief, and countless community organizations throughout Houston and beyond. Her commitment to giving became one of the defining aspects of the McNair family's legacy.

That dedication was recognized by the Texans in 2025 when she became just the fourth inductee into the franchise's Ring of Honor, joining Bob McNair, Andre Johnson, and J.J. Watt.

Texans and NFL Community Mourn

Tributes quickly poured in from across the NFL following Tuesday's announcement.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans praised Janice McNair's kindness and the welcoming environment she created throughout the organization, while current and former players—including C.J. Stroud, J.J. Watt, and Andre Johnson—shared heartfelt messages remembering her compassion and support. Teams across the league also released statements honoring her contributions to both football and the Houston community.

For Texans fans, Janice McNair's legacy will forever be intertwined with the return of NFL football to Houston. But those who knew her best often point to something greater than wins and losses—a life dedicated to serving others, supporting the community, and helping build an organization grounded in family values.

Her influence on the Texans, the city of Houston, and generations of lives touched through her philanthropy will continue to be felt for years to come.