The Houston Texans have inked general manager Rick Smith to a four-year contract extension that will keep him with the franchise through the 2020 season, owner Bob McNair told John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
"Rick’s doing a good job for us, and I think stability in the organization is important," said McNair. "He works hard. He’s very diligent. He communicates well. He knows what our objectives are. Rick has put together a good scouting staff, and he works well with the coaching staff. I thought this was a good time to get this done."
Smith has led the Texans' front office since 2006, with the team putting together a 79-81 record over that time. His job was thought to be in jeopardy following a 2-14 season in 2013, but Houston bounced back with consecutive 9-7 seasons.
The Texans have knocked the majority of their first-round picks out of the park under Smith, with the general manager selecting perennial Pro Bowlers like Duane Brown, Brian Cushing, and J.J. Watt.