Texans GM search: Brian Gaine the favorite
A couple of familiar faces could be picks for Smith successor
By
John McClain, Houston Chronicle
January 8, 2018 Updated: January 8, 2018 10:01pm
The Texans can make a smooth transition from Rick Smith to his replacement as general manager by hiring Brian Gaine or Jimmy Raye III because of their familiarity with the organization.
The Texans kicked off the interview process Monday with Raye, their vice president of football operations/assistant general manager.
Gaine, Buffalo's vice president of player personnel, interviews Tuesday.
Although the situation could change, most consider Gaine the favorite because he spent three seasons (2014-16) with the Texans and was highly respected by members of the personnel, coaching and administrative departments.
This is a busy time for the Texans, as it is for most NFL teams. Not only are they looking for a new general manager, but coach Bill O'Brien must replace six assistant coaches.
That number could grow if defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel gets a head coaching job. He's a candidate for Detroit and Indianapolis.
If Vrabel is hired by the Lions or Colts, assistant head coach Romeo Crennel could return to defensive coordinator, a position he had from 2014-16.
O'Brien, whose staff will coach in the Senior Bowl, doesn't appear to be in a rush to hire new assistants. Because he has only one year left on his contract, it'll be easier to get coaches to come to the Texans if he signs an extension.
Once owner Bob McNair and vice chairman Cal McNair decide on a new general manager, they'll direct their attention to O'Brien and signing him to an extension.
A return to Houston?
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Only 2 choices so far.........and Gaine is the favorite..........making Billy Raye the second favorite? The grocery buyer better not be satisfied to call it a day any time soon.