Texans' Caserio: I'll 'forever be indebted' to former coach Culley

One day after firing David Culley, Texans general manager Nick Caserio said he'll "forever be indebted" to the former Houston head coach for his efforts with the team, according to Brian T. Smith of the Houston Chronicle.

Caserio addressed Culley's dismissal after just one season during a press conference Friday, adding, "These decisions are always difficult ... but, ultimately, that was the position I was placed in by the McNair family, to do the right thing for the organization."

The Texans started the 2021 campaign with a 1-8 mark before going 3-5 to finish 4-13. They beat two teams down the stretch with winning records in the Tennessee Titans and Los Angeles Chargers.

However, Caserio fired Culley, as well as offensive coordinator Tim Kelly, due to "philosophical differences," per the GM's statement Thursday.

Caserio didn't go into detail about those differences Friday, only pointing out that there were things the team did and didn't do well, according to Aaron Wilson of Sports Talk 790.

Despite rumors linking the Texans to New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and linebackers coach Jerod Mayo for their vacant head coaching position, Caserio said no one "should assume anything," adding that Houston will look for the "best fit" for the franchise, per Smith.

Meanwhile, Caserio provided no update on quarterback Deshaun Watson, who's seeking a trade while facing 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and inappropriate behavior.

"I think there are going to be a number of things we talk about this offseason," Caserio said, according to Wilson. "That particular situation, I don't think there is any more clarity today than there was here previously. But we're going to work through it, and, ultimately, we're going to do what we feel is best for the organization."