Houston Texans GM Rick Smith is taking an extended leave of absence from the team.
Smith is taking a leave to be with his wife, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Smith announced his decision after the Texans completed a 4-12 season on Sunday.
“Effective immediately, I have chosen to take an extended leave of absence to focus my attention and intention on my wife’s complete recovery from her recent diagnosis of breast cancer,” Smith said in a statement shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. “We are faithful and trust in God’s promise of healing and Wholeness. I am eternally grateful to the McNair family for their unwavering support during this trying time. This was an extremely difficult decision for me to make as I love this organization and every member of this team both on and off the field. I remain committed to our quest to bring a championship to the city of Houston, yet my family needs me now and they are my priority.”
Smith has been the Texans’ GM since 2012.
The news of Smith’s absence also comes at a time when there have been reports about a “toxic” relationship between him and Texans head coach Bill O’Brien, whom the team reportedly is working to bring back as head coach.
