Cowboys Rumors: Rex Ryan Interviews for DC Job amid Ron Rivera, Mike Zimmer Buzz

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly interviewing former New York Jets and Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan for their defensive coordinator vacancy.

Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reported Ryan has joined a growing list of candidates to potentially replace Dan Quinn, who left to take the Washington Commanders' head coaching position.

Ryan has not coached in the NFL since the 2016 season. He's spent the last seven years working as an analyst for ESPN. The 61-year-old has not been a defensive coordinator since his run from 2005 to 2008 with the Baltimore Ravens.

The Denver Broncos interviewed Ryan for their defensive coordinator opening under Sean Payton last year but ultimately hired Vance Joseph.

The Cowboys have targeted defensive coordinators with head coaching experience in their pursuit of a replacement for Quinn. Ryan joins a list that includes Ron Rivera and Mike Zimmer, who have also spent extensive time as head coaches. Cowboys defensive line coach Aden Durde is the lone candidate who has never been a head coach.

With Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy having a hold on the team's offensive system, it makes sense Dallas would target a strong voice for the defensive side. McCarthy is in the final year of his contract and will enter 2024 firmly on the hot seat amid repeated playoff failures.

Adding a defensive coordinator with experience being a head coach would give the Cowboys a natural in-season replacement if Jerry Jones decides to move on from McCarthy midway through the 2024 campaign.