Texans, special teams coach Larry Izzo agree to part ways

HOUSTON – The Texans offseason is underway, and following their 4-12 season, staff changes are ongoing as well.

Following his media brief Tuesday morning, head coach Bill O’Brien began making staff decisions, all while he is in talks with team ownership about a contract extension that will be finalized soon.

The changes O’Brien made include the parting of ways with secondary coach John Butler and special teams coordinator Larry Izzo.

Special teams have been a problem for most of the franchise’s history and were substandard during Izzo’s two years on the job in 2016 and 2017.  

O'Brien is expected to make more staff changes in the days ahead.

The Texans are also in the market for a new general manager.  A search firm has been hired, and among those being targeted is Brian Gaine who is with the Bills organization.  

Internally, the Texans assistant general manager and Vice President of Football Operations and Jimmy Raye will be interviewed.  Also considered a top contender for the job is Patriots executive Nick Caserio.