Texans GM Rick Smith signs extension through 2020

Texans extend GM Smith's contract

HOUSTON – With the Texans two days away from training camp opening, team owner Bob McNair has extended the contract of general manager Rick Smith.

Smith, who has held the position with the Texans since 2006 is entering his 11th season and this extension puts him under contract through the 2020 season. 

He added the title of executive vice president prior to the 2011 season.

“We are thrilled to announce a four-year contract extension for Rick Smith,” said Founder, Chairman and CEO Robert C. McNair.

“I believe it is critical to have stability within an organization and Rick is an important part of our team.

"He knows what our objectives are and is well-respected within our organization and throughout the league," McNair added.

"This extension helps us build toward our goal of long-term success in the NFL.”

Smith's time as general manager has been marked with good times and bad, with a pair of double-figure win season and a pair of double-figure loss seasons. 

The team has been to the playoffs three times in the last five seasons, winning the AFC south in each of those instances.

Last season's 30-0 loss to the Chiefs in the wild card round, was the first time they had qualified for the playoffs, but were then unable to win their opening game.

Smith's draft history is comparable with tremendously successful selections like J.J. Watt in 2011 and DeAndre Hopkins in 2013, but also several drafts that produced very few helpful players.