Report: Lions expected to interview Rick Smith for general manager opening

The Detroit Lions interviewed three internal candidates last week for their open general manager position. This week, we're learning of an external candidate set to get an interview with Sheila Ford Hamp's team.

Detroit is expected to interview former Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith before Christmas, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. 

Smith spent 12 seasons as GM of the Texans from 2006-17. During that time, he compiled a 92-100 record and won four division titles. Some of his best draft choices during his time in Houston include J.J. Watt, DeAndre Hopkins and Deshaun Watson. 

Smith stepped away from the Texans in 2017 to help take care of his wife, Tiffany, who died of breast cancer in 2019. 

Before his tenure in Houston, Smith was an assistant defensive backs coach with the Denver Broncos from 1996-99 and the team's director of pro personnel from 2000-05. 

While the Lions are showing interest in Smith, they'll likely face competition from the Atlanta Falcons, who also are in need of a GM. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons are showing interest in him. 

Detroit fired head coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn after a blowout loss to the Texans on Thanksgiving. At the time, the Lions were 4-7 on the season.