FOOTBALL – Texans GM Nick Caserio on firing coach David Culley after one season: ‘One of the hardest decisions I’ve made in my life’
The Houston Texans fired coach David Culley Thursday after just one season and a 4-13 record in 2021. On Friday, general manager Nick Caserio said it was his decision to move on from the 66-year-old coach.
“These choices are generally troublesome,” Caserio said, through Aaron Wilson. “Whenever you’re in a place of initiative, you’re set in places that are troublesome. It’s rarely private.”
Caserio added the Texans were in a “rough spot” when Culley took the reins and said he has “respect and admiration” for the coach but called it a “challenging year.”
“It was a tough choice, probably the hardest choice I’ve made in my life,” Caserio said of the terminating. “[Ownership has] imparted in me the position to give a valiant effort for this association.”
The GM touted Culley instilling a positive culture in Houston that will carry on to the next coach. Caserio, however, didn’t get into the philosophical difference that led to the firing.
“There were a few things we did as a group that were OK. There were different things that should have been something more,” he said.
Moving forward, Caserio said he didn’t have a timeline for hiring the Texans’ next coach. The GM dismissed rumors that he’s targeting a former Patriots coach — offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and linebackers coach Jerod Mayo have been reported as potential candidates.
“I would say, I don’t figure anyone ought to accept anything,” Caserio said. “I’ll be exceptionally purposeful with this interaction. The main thing is tracking down the best fit for this association.”
The GM is now tasked with hiring his second coach in as many seasons in Houston, but believes the club is in a better spot than a year ago.
“Our circumstance right presently is much better compared to it was a year prior to the extent resources, compensation cap,” he said. “I think there are a few very beneficial things set up. (Yet, we have) a ton of work to do before us. The serious soul and cycle is by and large certain.”
Concerning the Deshaun Watson circumstance, which lingered over Culley‘s residency, Caserio said there was the same old thing to report.
“I think there are going to be a number of things we talk about this offseason,” the GM said. “That particular situation, I don’t think there is any more clarity today than there was here previously, but we’re going to work through it, and ultimately we’re going to do what we feel is best for the organization.”
Watson faces 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior. The QB also requested a trade last year.
