Romeo Crennel's deal with Texans set to expire next week

HOUSTON -- Texans defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel's contract expires Jan. 24, a source told ESPN's Adam Caplan.

According to Caplan, the Texans have not yet started negotiating a new deal with Crennel. On Monday, head coach Bill O'Brien said he wants his defensive coordinator to return next season.

"I think that Romeo has done a great job," O'Brien said. "I know that we would love to have him back. I know that. But I haven't even sat down with any of the coaches yet or anything like that.

"But I can tell you Romeo is a great football coach and just means a lot to me personally. We would love to have Romeo back here."

The Texans' defense finished the regular season ranked No. 1 in the NFL in total defense, and it did it without three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt, who was put on injured reserve before the Texans' Week 4 game.

The unit allowed an average of 301.3 yards per game, led by defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus, inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney and cornerback A.J. Bouye.

The Texans parted ways with offensive coordinator George Godsey on Monday.