After he and the Texans “mutually parted ways” shortly after the 2016 season ended, George Godsey has been talked about for opening coordinator positions with the New York Jets and the Alabama Crimson Tide (a de facto NFL team), but he still remained on the coaching market. No longer.
Godsey has been hired as the Detroit Lions’ defensive assistant in charge of special projects, reports MMQB’s Albert Breer.
Lions have hired ex-Texans OC George Godsey as defensive assistant/special projects. Godsey worked with Lions GM Bob Quinn in New England.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 21, 2017
Yes, George Godsey was hired to coach defense despite being the Texans’ offensive coordinator last season. The snarky comments write themselves sometimes.
Godsey, 38, ended his tenure with Houston after a disastrous start to quarterback Brock Osweiler’s career at NRG Park. The Texans ranked 29th overall in offense last year.
Texans fans will recall Bill O’Brien relieved Godsey of offensive playcalling duties following the Texans’ shutout loss to the New England Patriots in Week 3. Godsey had previously served has the Texans’ quarterbacks coach before being promoted to coordinator two years ago.
In terms of a connection with his new employer, Godsey previously worked with Lions general manager Bob Quinn while both were with the Patriots. Quinn, or perhaps Jim Caldwell, thought enough of Godsey’s coaching chops to give him another shot in the NFL, albeit on a side of the ball he hasn’t coached at this (or any?) level. Best of luck to George Godsey with the Lions.