Former Texans players warning free agents to stay away from Bill O'Brien

Houston Texans coach and general manager Bill O’Brien has drawn plenty of criticism from people outside the organization. Now, as O’Brien is trying to convince players to sign with the Texans, some of his former players are reportedly warning free agents to stay far away from the organization.

According to Pro Football Network’s Benjamin Allbright, a free-agent defensive back was being targeted by O’Brien and the Texans this offseason. When that defensive back reached out to former players who played under O’Brien, they warned him to find another team and avoid playing for O’Brien.

O’Brien came under scrutiny after trading star receiver DeAndre Hopkins for a second-round pick and David Johnson’s bloated contract. Houston’s head coach and general manager faced even more heat after he allegedly compared Hopkins to Aaron Hernandez, but Hopkins said the comments were being overblown.

Of course, O’Brien has received plenty of criticism from fans and analysts for his baffling in-game decisions and a series of trades that cost the team multiple future draft picks and pushed Jadeveon Clowney and Hopkins out of Houston. Despite the criticism, the Texans named O’Brien their general manager this offseason. While ownership clearly has trust in O’Brien’s approach and leadership style, it’s clear the feeling isn’t shared by many around the NFL and it’s now costing the Texans even more.