HOUSTON (AP) – The Houston Texans, off to a 1-3-1 start, have parted ways with executive vice president of football operations Jack Easterby, the Associated Press has confirmed.
The move was confirmed by a person familiar with the details who spoke to The Associated Press on Monday on condition of anonymity because it was not published. This news was first reported by ESPN.
Easterby came to Houston in 2019 after spending several years with the New England Patriots in roles such as chaplain and character coach. He was hired as executive vice president of team development before being promoted to his current role in January 2020.
He was close to team owner Cal McNair and was given more power in the organization after coach and general manager Bill O’Brien was fired after the team started 0-4 in 2020.
Easterby and the Texans drew criticism in 2021 when they ignored a search firm’s recommendations and instead hired former Patriots personnel director Nick Caserio as their new GM. Andre Johnson, the team’s all-time leading receiver, was among those who publicly criticized Easterby and his power in the organization.
Easterby appeared to be heavily involved in the team’s decision-making process after that hire, but has been less vocal and visible this season after coach Lovie Smith was hired to replace David Culley, who was fired after just one season.
Prior to working with the Patriots, Easterby spent two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs where he focused on player and character development. Easterby did not immediately respond to a message from the AP seeking comment.
Smith wouldn’t comment on Easterby’s job status Monday, saying you don’t discuss anything until it’s official, but he did talk about their relationship.
“My relationship with Jack has been great,” Smith said. “He was good for our organization. One of the first guys I had a chance to talk to before I got here.”
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