Texans strength coach Craig Fitzgerald joins Tennessee staff, praised by Johnathan Joseph

Recommended Video:

Texans strength and conditioning coach Craig Fitzgerald has resigned from the coaching staff after accepting the University of Tennessee strength and conditioning job.

The Philadelphia native was hired by new Volunteers coach Jeremy Pruitt.

A former linebacker at the University of Maryland, worked previously at Penn State, South Carolina, Harvard and Maryland as a strength coach.

Fitzgerald was praised by Texans veteran cornerback Johnathan Joseph, a two-time Pro Bowl selection who's played in Houston for seven seasons.

"FItz is the real deal," Joseph said. "Best strength coach I've had since being in the NFL. Cares about his player and tailors his workouts to the player. Also keeps you strong and durable throughout the whole year because of his strength and conditioning program.

"Always was there for you in the weight room off day, during season or on a Sunday during offseason. He would be there for you anytime. Great guy and a friend of mine, will truly be missed."

Texans safety Andre Hal praised Fitzgerald after winning the Texans' annual Workhorse award for his performance and attendance in offseason workouts.

Hal got up to 195 pounds and can bench press over 35 pounds.

PHOTOS: John McClain's year-end awards Texans strength and conditioning coach Craig Fitzgerald has resigned from the coaching staff after accepting the University of Tennessee strength and conditioning job. Browse through the photos to see McClain's year-end awards from the Texans' 2017 season. less PHOTOS: John McClain's year-end awards Texans strength and conditioning coach Craig Fitzgerald has resigned from the coaching staff after accepting the University of Tennessee strength and conditioning ... more Photo: NA/Associated Press For The NFL Photo: NA/Associated Press For The NFL Image 1 of / 11 Caption Close Texans strength coach Craig Fitzgerald joins Tennessee staff, praised by Johnathan Joseph 1 / 11 Back to Gallery

"I was here working out all the time with coach Fitzgerald" Hal said. "I missed probably two workouts. I like to do it. I want to get my body right. I love to get better. It definitely helps me on the field. I got way stronger."

Hal got a trophy for his accomplishments.

"It's a big trophy," Hal said. "The Workhorse is a big, buff bulldog looking thing. I keep it in my room. It shows hard work pays off."