Texans hire Ravens assistant David Culley as HC

The Houston Texans hired David Culley as their next head coach, the team announced Friday.

The two sides agreed to a five-year contract, sources told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Culley was the assistant head coach, passing game coordinator, and wide receivers coach for the Baltimore Ravens over the past two seasons. He's staying in Houston overnight for additional meetings with the Texans, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.

Houston was also reportedly considering Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier for the job, but Culley reportedly emerged as a serious candidate in recent days despite never serving as an NFL head coach or offensive coordinator.

Culley has logged 27 years of NFL experience, including working with Andy Reid as the receivers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles (1999-2012) and the Kansas City Chiefs (2013-16).

The 65-year-old, who wasn't seen as a front-runner early in the process, has received praise for his leadership and the way he connects with players, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

He is the second person of color and first Black head coach hired during the 2021 cycle.

The Texans will also retain offensive coordinator Tim Kelly to maintain continuity for the club's offense, according to Rapoport.