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Houston Texans: My sentiments on Rick Smith’s leave of absence

By Dan Shedd

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 03: Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith introduces Bill O'Brien as the new head coach of the Houston Texans at a press conference at Reliant Stadium on January 3, 2014 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 03: Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith introduces Bill O'Brien as the new head coach of the Houston Texans at a press conference at Reliant Stadium on January 3, 2014 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /
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The Houston Texans have announced that Executive Vice President of Football Operations/General Manager Rick Smith is taking a leave of absence effective immediately.  The circumstances are unfortunate and here’s my sentiments on the situation.

After Sunday’s season finale against the Indianapolis Colts, the Houston Texans announced that Rick Smith would take an immediate leave of absence to be with his wife who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

"“I am eternally grateful to the McNair family for their unwavering support during this trying time,” Smith said in a statement Sunday. “This was an extremely difficult decision for me to make as I love this organization and every member of this team both on and off the field. I remain committed to our quest to bring a championship to the city of Houston, yet my family needs me now and they are my priority.”"

This news comes after a loss to the Colts to end the Texans season at 4-12. This puts the Texans dead last in the AFC South. There has been some speculation about Bill O’Brien’s future with the team, but it sounds like he will be staying after all. O’Brien has one year left on his contract.

O’Brien offered the following during Sunday’s post game conference.

"“I don’t have any comment on that,” O’Brien said Sunday. “I don’t control that. I don’t control that. I’m the head coach. I have a boss, and he controls that. I’ll meet with him, I’m sure, at someMore from House of HoustonAre you the 2021 FanSided Sports Fan of the Year?Houston Texans: 4 reasons Romeo Crennel is right coach right nowAstros-Twins Wild Card Series: 5 things to know as MLB postseason beginsHouston Texans: The Most Underrated Sports Drought EverHouston Texans: J.J. Watt’s early case for NFL Hall of Famepoint, and we’ll decide what direction he wants to go.”"

O’Brien has finished 9-7 in three seasons with two AFC South titles (2015, 2016). 

Smith has been the Houston Texans general manger since 2005. Smith has been responsible for drafting stars like J.J. Watt, Deandre Hopkins and most recently, Deshaun Watson.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network  reports that there is a possibility of getting a new GM to take over for Smith in his absence.

Next: Rumor: Bill O'Brien likely to remain as head coach

Obviously, football is the farthest thing from Smith’s mind right now as he spends time with his family during this trying time.  My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Cancer is no joke.

Best wishes to the Smith family in the new year.

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