Count the Houston Texans as one of the Philadelphia Eagles’ biggest fans in the 2022 season.

Houston announced the firing of head coach Lovie Smith after the team won its regular season finale on Sunday. The win caused the Texans to lose possession of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

With the head coaching position vacant, the Texans have been quick to announce their interest in Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen. In fact, Houston requested to interview Steichen for the opening on Monday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Texans requested permission from the Eagles to interview their offensive coordinator Shane Steichen for Houston’s HC job, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 9, 2023

This news comes after NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero named Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon as a top candidate for the job. Since their report, the Texans have requested permission to interview Gannon as well, per Adam Schefter.

League source: Texans have requested permission to interview Eagles’ DC Jonathan Gannon.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 9, 2023

Steichen helped transform what was a middle of the road Eagles offense in 2021 to one of the league’s top units just a season later.

In 2021, Philadelphia ranked 14th in total offense and 12th in scoring offense (26.1 PPG). The Birds had an anemic passing attack, which ranked 25th in the league. However, the Eagles did have the NFL’s top rushing offense.

Fast forward to 2022 and it’s a much different story. Sure, the addition of A.J. Brown helps, but Philadelphia ranks third in each, total offense and scoring offense (28.1 PPG).

Those in key roles on contending teams will always get looks from teams on the outside, looking for an answer to their shortcomings. It’s safe to assume that the Texans won’t be the only team inquiring about Nick Sirianni’s coaching staff as openings continue to pop up around the league.

Featured image via Bill Streicher – USA TODAY Sports