Report: Texans promoting Vrabel to defensive coordinator

The Houston Texans are promoting linebackers coach Mike Vrabel to defensive coordinator ahead of the 2017 season, Albert Breer of The MMQB reports.

Vrabel, a rising star in the coaching ranks, steps in for Romeo Crennel on the heels of a 2016 campaign in which the Texans fielded the NFL's top-ranked offense.

There had been some uncertainty surrounding the future of Crennel as his three-year contract reached its conclusion, but the Texans appear to have found a best-case solution.

The 69-year-old is expected to remain on staff despite the promotion of Vrabel, likely stepping into a role as Bill O'Brien's assistant head coach, Breer adds.

Crennel sticking around in a significant role is a positive development for Houston. Not only will he likely still have a hand in building upon an already stout defense, but his presence could go a long way to easing Vrabel's transition into a coordinator role.

Vrabel gets the nod after three highly successful seasons coaching the Texans linebackers, where he oversaw the development of standout pass-rushers Jadeveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus.