The Facts: On Monday, the Texans announced a finalized coaching staff under new head coach Lovie Smith. Smith, formerly the defensive coordinator under Culley, has opted not to hire a defensive coordinator and retained Frank Ross asspecial teams coordinator. With all the hirings official, there is one name that stands out as a glaring victory and the shining star of the Texans’ decision to overhaul their coaching staff this offseason. Pep Hamilton, formerly quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator under Culley, was elevated to OC and convinced to stay in Houston despite a multitude of interviews and offers this offseason across the league.

Diehards Line:Hamilton is massively credited with the development of Justin Herbert during his shocking rookie of the year campaign for the Los Angeles Chargers during 2020. His work with third-round pick Davis Mills, who arguably performed better than any of his 2021 rookie peers at the quarterback position, officially put the league on notice. He was the hottest name in the offensive coordinator landscape, and many are projecting he’ll have offers to be a head coach next year. For someone with ample options, it’s a minor miracle he opted to stay in Houston with the current state and reputation of the franchise. Houston desperately needs help offensively. They finished 28th in passing yards, 32nd in rushing yards, and 30th in points per game in 2021. Make no mistake, Hamilton has his work cut out for him. However, his presence on the team represents Houston’s best chance to improve rapidly across from Smith’s defense.