Texans expected to hire Lovie Smith as new HC

News of the hiring comes just one day after it was reported the Texans were in serious talks with Smith, who served as the team's associate head coach and defensive coordinator last season.

Houston's decision to hire Smith does not come without criticism. The 63-year-old's head-coaching resume is lopsided, given he followed up a successful nine-year tenure with the Chicago Bears with an 8-24 record in two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He also had an underwhelming tenure in the college ranks leading Illinois. Smith compiled a 17-39 record across five seasons with Fighting Illini, making one bowl appearance. There is also the fact the Texans are coming off of a 4-13 season in which Smith was part of the coaching staff.

Despite being part of David Culley's staff last season, Smith didn't become a strong candidate for the head coaching position until late in the game. Former quarterback Josh McCown and former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores were reportedly the top candidates before news broke the team was interviewing Smith.