The Houston Texans have extended the contract of Executive Vice President of Football Operations and General Manager Rick Smith by four years. He is now under contract through the 2020 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. This extension helps us build toward our goal of long-term success in the NFL."
Entering his 11th season with the Texans, Smith has served as the club's general manager since 2006 and added the title of executive vice president prior to the 2011 season. Over the past five years (2011-15), the Texans have won three AFC South Division titles, which is tied for the fourth-most division championships in the NFL during that span.
Collectively, Houston's current roster, all acquired by Smith, has earned 24 Pro Bowl selections, 22 first- or second-team Associated Press NFL All-Pro distinctions, three Defensive Player of the Year awards and one Defensive Rookie of the Year award. The Texans have been particularly successful in the first round of the NFL Draft under Smith as Houston is the only team in the NFL with every first-rounder since 2008 still on its roster and all but one of Smith's first-round draft picks played in every game as a rookie.
