Texans hire Wes Welker as offensive assistant

The Houston Texans have hired former NFL receiver Wes Welker as an offensive and special teams assistant on their coaching staff, the team announced.

Welker played under Texans head coach Bill O'Brien from 2007-12 as a member of the New England Patriots. Welker spent 12 seasons in the NFL between the San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, Patriots, Denver Broncos, and St. Louis Rams, being named to five Pro Bowls and leading the league in receptions three times.

Former Patriots Mike Vrabel and Larry Izzo are also on O'Brien's staff, serving as defensive coordinator and special teams coordinator, respectively.