When Bill O’Brien got fired from the Houston Texans, the fan base celebrated like they won the Super Bowl. As it turns out, the former NFL head coach celebrated with them.
Excerpts from a new book written by ESPN’s Seth Wickersham about the Patriots organization reveal that the former Texans coach was once discussed as a possible replacement for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and that he could eventually succeed Bill Belichick.
Once he heard this news, O’Brien reportedly joked that he wanted the Texans to fire him so that he could become available for the job. Leaks from O’Brien’s camp signaled that he wanted out from Houston and the rumors were so “aggressive” it became suspicious, ESPN reports.
The Texans gave control over football operations to O’Brien after he won the power struggle.
“I was trying to get fired,” he reportedly said.
He was eventually given his walking papers in 2020 after starting the season 0–4. He compiled a 52–48 regular-season record and 2–4 postseason record in Houston. O’Brien has since joined the University of Alabama this year and currently serves as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
