Houston Texans Coach: ‘Attractive Job’ As Lovie Smith Faces Possible Firing
INDIANAPOLIS – The bad news for the Houston Texans as it relates to the coaching position? Lovie Smith’s job security is considered to be in serious jeopardy heading into the final game of another miserable season, according to NFL sources, meaning a shaky outlook for a franchise that could end up hiring three head coaches. different in three seasons.
The good news? If the Texans fire Smith, they are considered by league officials to be an attractive job destination.
“This is a great situation to be in,” an NFL source said. “The Texans have money to spend and some good young players. It’s not like the cupboard is completely bare.”
In Smith’s first season at the helm, the Texans have amassed a league-worst 2-13-1 record heading into Sunday’s season finale against the Indianapolis Colts. And there are obviously big holes in the roster.
But the Texans have a projected $47.7 million in cap space and two first-round picks in 2023 after general manager Nick Caserio traded quarterback Deshaun Watson, whose job is believed to be safe, according to some sources.
“Nick has had a lot of heavy lifting to do in Houston,” a source said. “They practically had to start over.”
The Texans have some talent under contract, including Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, Pro Bowl alternate running back Dameon Pierce, right tackle Tytus Howard and wide receiver Brandin Cooks, who is likely to be traded this offseason after will almost be addressed at the NFL deadline. .
They also have receivers Nico Collins and John Metchie III, who missed his rookie season while being treated for leukemia, and young star-caliber talent on defense in linebacker Christian Harris, safety Jalen Pitre and cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.
What the Texans need to prioritize is finding a long-term solution at quarterback, and they will consider all options from the draft to veterans.
Alabama quarterback Bryce Young is undersized but widely considered the most talented prospect ahead of Ohio State QB CJ Stroud.
All of that will be part of the discussion — if Smith is fired — with candidates like Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon (sources tell us of “mutual interest” there), Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and Broncos defensive coordinator Ejiro Ever.
“No, Lovie’s job is not secure,” a source told TexansDaily.com — but there’s a chance the franchise’s competitive future is.
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