NFL Rumors: Texans Strongly Considering Lovie Smith for HC

Another familiar candidate has emerged over the last several days as a serious contender for the vacant head coaching position in Houston.

All signs pointing to Lovie Smith being hired as next head coach of the Houston Texans @NFLonFOX
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) February 7, 2022

According to Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport, the Texans current defensive coordinator and associate head coach Lovie Smith has reportedly partaken in multiple conversations with the team in regards to assuming the role as an internal hire. The Texans have been tied to several other candidates through their search but seemingly the finalists for the role include Lovie Smith and former Dolphins head coach, Brian Flores who has interviewed for the role twice already.

After the Dolphins announced the hiring of Mike McDaniel on Sunday as their new head coach it leaves only the Texans and the Saints as the last two franchises remaining with openings at the position.

Texans said they now have “completed additional discussions with Lovie Smith”. Next step would be his hiring.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2022

Smith, who just finished his first season as the Texans' Defensive coordinator has an absolute abundance of NFL coaching experience including prior tenures as head coach for both the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During his time in Chicago over nine seasons, Smith logged a record of 81-63 along with 3 playoff appearances and a trip to a Super Bowl; and while his time in Tampa Bay was less fruitful with an 8-24 showing over two seasons it shouldn't deter a team from offering him another chance in the league.