Cardinals Request Interview with Texans Secondary Coach Dino Vasso for Defensive Coordinator Role

Vasso previously interviewed for the Titans' defensive coordinator job that went to Gus Bradley.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:55pm

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The Arizona Cardinals have requested an interview with Texans secondary coach Dino Vasso for their defensive coordinator opening. Vasso, 38, has been an instrumental part of the Texans' top-ranked defense this season, coaching All-Pro corner Derek Stingley Jr. and Pro Bowl corner Kamari Lassiter. He has previously interviewed for the Tennessee Titans' defensive coordinator job, which ultimately went to Gus Bradley.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' defensive coordinator role is a high-profile position, and Vasso's interview request shows that he is considered a rising star in the coaching ranks. His work with the Texans' secondary has been impressive, and he could bring a fresh perspective to the Cardinals' defense as they look to improve upon their 2025 performance.

The details

Vasso, who has been mentored by Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, defensive coordinator Matt Burke, and Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, was the Eagles' assistant defensive coordinator in 2020. The Texans' defense ranked second in points allowed and first in fewest yards allowed this past season, giving up just 277.2 yards per game.

  • Vasso previously interviewed with the Tennessee Titans for their defensive coordinator job that went to Gus Bradley.
  • The Cardinals hired Mike LaFleur as their new head coach and he has hired Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator.

The players

Dino Vasso

Texans secondary coach who has been requested for an interview for the Arizona Cardinals' defensive coordinator job.

Derek Stingley Jr.

All-Pro corner for the Texans, coached by Dino Vasso.

Kamari Lassiter

Pro Bowl corner for the Texans, coached by Dino Vasso.

DeMeco Ryans

Texans head coach who has mentored Dino Vasso.

Matt Burke

Texans defensive coordinator who has mentored Dino Vasso.

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What they’re saying

“Vasso, 38, coaches All-Pro corner Derek Stingley Jr. and Pro Bowl corner Kamari Lassiter as an instrumental staff member for the Texans' top-ranked defense.”

— Aaron Wilson, Texans and NFL reporter (click2houston.com)

What’s next

The Cardinals will interview Dino Vasso for their defensive coordinator position in the coming days or weeks.

The takeaway

Dino Vasso's interview request from the Cardinals highlights his growing reputation as a talented defensive coach, particularly for his work with the Texans' secondary. If hired, he could bring a new energy and approach to the Cardinals' defense as they look to improve upon their 2025 performance.