Texans GM taking leave of absence as wife battles cancer

Posted December 31, 2017 6:00 am

By MICHAEL MAROT

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith says he will take an immediate extended leave of absence to help his wife battle breast cancer.

Smith made the announcement in a statement less than an hour after the Texans finished their season with a 22-13 loss Sunday at Indianapolis.

Houston (4-12) lost its final six games of the season and nine of its last 10, prompting speculation there may be a shake-up in the front office, on the coaching staff or both.

Smith called the decision "extremely difficult" and acknowledged he still wants to bring Houston a championship. He also thanked team owner Bob McNair and his family for their support as he spends more time with his family.

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Indianapolis Colts' Frank Gore (23) is tackled by Houston Texans' Andre Hal (29) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) The Associated Press

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