Cowboys Rumors: Kris Richard Targeted as Part of Jets' Head Coach Search

The New York Jets are reportedly "requesting an interview" with Dallas Cowboys passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach Kris Richard, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL.com.

Richard is reportedly one of the "hot names" currently on the market for teams looking to address head-coaching vacancies, per Bucky Brooks of NFL.com.

ESPN's Adam Schefter added the Miami Dolphins are also looking to interview Richard.

Richard, 39, began his NFL coaching career with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010 and served as the defensive backs coach from 2010-14, guiding the legendary Legion of Boom secondary. He was then promoted to the team's defensive coordinator in 2015, holding the position for three years.

Under his guidance, the team finished second in yards allowed and first in points allowed in 2015, fifth in yards allowed and third in points allowed in 2016 and 11th and 13th, respectively, in 2017. But somewhat surprisingly, Pete Carroll and the Seahawks canned him after the 2017 season and replaced him with Ken Norton Jr.

Richard then joined the Cowboys, and the team finished 13th in passing yards per game (235) and gave up just 22 passing touchdowns (tied eighth). 

Richard's resume should make him a intriguing option for teams with a vacancy, and with openings in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Green Bay, Arizona, New York, Tampa Bay, Denver and Miami, Richard could be getting quite a few requests for interviews in the coming days and weeks.

As for the Jets, it will be interesting to see what direction the team goes after firing Todd Bowles, who also came into the job from a defensive background. It wouldn't be surprising if the team decided to hire a more offensive-minded head coach with quarterback Sam Darnold now in place, but Richard is apparently a name they are considering.