Bill O’Brien, former head coach of the Houston Texans, recently opened up about his tenure, sharing a significant regret from his time in Houston. In a candid interview on “Next Up with Adam Breneman,” O’Brien admitted that taking on the role of general manager was a misstep.
“I didn’t really enjoy being the GM,” O’Brien revealed. “I didn’t enjoy negotiating contracts. In some respects, I lost relationships with some of the guys that I was coaching. I know how to evaluate talent, but I shouldn’t be negotiating contracts and things like that. So, in the end, that was a mistake by me, and I wish I really didn’t do that, to be honest with you.”
Appointed as GM in January 2020, O’Brien’s dual role led to one of the most criticized moves in NFL history. He traded star receiver DeAndre Hopkins and a 2020 fourth-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals for running back David Johnson, a 2020 second-round pick, and a 2021 fourth-round pick.
Hopkins thrived in Arizona, tying a career-high with 115 receptions and earning his fifth All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections. Meanwhile, Johnson’s performance in Houston was lackluster, with a sharp decline in his second season.
O’Brien’s tenure included other notable moves, such as trading a 2020 second-round pick to the Rams for receiver Brandin Cooks and signing Jonathan Greenard, who led the Texans in sacks in 2023. He also acquired offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil from the Dolphins for two first-round picks, a second-rounder, and two players.
“We made some controversial decisions, but we made some good decisions too,” O’Brien added. “Laremy Tunsil’s one of the greatest left tackles in the history of the game, in my opinion. So it wasn’t like it was all terrible.”
Despite winning four division championships and making four playoff appearances, O’Brien’s tenure is often overshadowed by his controversial decisions as GM. Reflecting on his time, he acknowledges the impact of his dual role on his coaching relationships and the team’s trajectory. O’Brien’s candid admission highlights the complexities and challenges of balancing coaching and management responsibilities in the NFL.
