The Houston Texans have announced the appointment of Lovie Smith as their next head coach.
The NFL Network confirmed the news on Monday (February 7), along with the announcement that Pep Hamilton would be assuming the role of offensive coordinator.
Smith, who is Black, becomes one of the league’s only minority head coaches, joining the likes of Mike McDaniel for the Miami Dolphins, Robert Saleh for the New York Jets, Mike Tomlin for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Ron Rivera for the Washington Commanders.
In a statement posted to Twitter, Texans General Manager Nick Caserio welcomed Smith to the role: “I am excited to introduce Lovie Smith as our next head coach. He is one of the most respected coaches in the NFL and an established leader.”
“A proven winner, Lovie has shown the ability to develop players both on and off the field for years. We had numerous discussions with countless coaches, executives, and players, and what revealed itself is that Lovie has both the leadership and people skills it takes to lead us forward.”
“He is one of the most respected coaches in the NFL and an established leader.”
A statement from GM Nick Caserio. pic.twitter.com/KUe6pcgsoO
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) February 8, 2022
Smith previously served as an NFL head coach for the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The 63-year-old joined the Texans during the last offseason as an associate head coach and defensive coordinator. The move came after he was fired by the University of Illinois, having acted as their head coach for five seasons.
“I want to thank Nick Caserio and the McNair family for giving me this opportunity,” said Smith in a statement. “I’m humbled to be the next head coach of the Houston Texans and incredibly excited to continue to work with Nick.”
𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗖𝗘: The man himself 🗣 pic.twitter.com/cmLtHCIqHh
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) February 8, 2022
He continued, “I understand the responsibility I have to this organisation and this city to develop a championship-level program. I’m ready to get to work and build it together.”
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