Top Defensive Coordinator Candidate Is Off The Board For The Browns

CINCINNATI, OH - NOVEMBER 12: Houston Texans Defensive Backs Coach Dino Vasso looks on during the NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Cincinnati Bengals on November 12, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

When defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz opted to resign from his position with the Cleveland Browns this week, we highlighted five of the top candidates who might be considered for the job. According to Ian Rapoport, one of those candidates is now off the board:

Dino Vasso didn’t have experience as a defensive coordinator, but was still touted as one of the league’s top defensive coordinator candidates this year, having already interviewed with the Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals, and expected to be a potential candidate for either the Browns or Raiders. Instead, he is receiving a contract extension to stay with the Houston Texans. It’s a situation we’ve seen with a few coaches this offseason, where they have to decide between taking the for-sure extension sitting in front of them, while weighing how serious the odds are of them getting a coordinator role this year versus in the future. The Texans have a great defense too, meaning he can continue to strengthen his resume.

Cleveland may still opt to promote from within, with linebackers coach Jason Tarver being a popular name and having defensive coordinator experience. As for external candidates, defensive pass game coordinator Cory Undlin of the Texans remains a candidate, despite Vasso pulling out.