The first NFL coach of the season has been fired.
The Houston Texans let go of Bill O’Brien Monday, a day after the team fell to 0-4 this season with a 31-23 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
O’Brien had been with Houston for six-plus seasons — making the playoffs in four of them — but came under criticism for personnel moves in recent months. The 50-year-old had seized control over Houston’s front office in 2019 after firing general manager Brian Gaine.
“Bill’s leadership moved our organization forward as he guided us to four AFC South division championships, 52 wins and multiple playoff appearances during his tenure,” Texans owner Cal McNair said in a statement. “Bill proved himself as a coach and leader in this league. I spoke with him earlier today and told him we are moving in a different direction.”
His most famous deals involved trading Pro Bowlers Jadeveon Clowney and DeAndre Hopkins in back-to-back years. He shipped Hopkins this past offseason to Arizona for running back David Johnson and draft picks. He also acquired All-Pro tackle Laremy Tunsil, though the cost was steep in two first round picks.
O’Brien went 52-48 with the Texans. He took the job in 2014 after serving as Penn State’s head coach. He also spent time with the New England Patriots, serving as the team’s offensive coordinator.
Romeo Crennel, who was the team’s assistant head coach, will serve as interim coach for the rest of the season.
This article is based in part on wire service reports.
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