Texans DB Coach Dino Vasso Interviewing for Titans DC Role Amid Houston's Coaching Buzz
HOUSTON - The Tennessee Titans are eyeing one of the key architects behind the Houston Texans’ elite secondary. Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso is interviewing for the Titans’ defensive coordinator position, according to league sources.
Vasso, 38, has played a major role in shaping one of the NFL’s stingiest defenses this season. Under his guidance, All-Pro corner Derek Stingley Jr. and Pro Bowl alternate Kamari Lassiter have flourished, anchoring a Houston secondary that helped propel the team to the top of the league in defensive rankings.
The Texans allowed just 277.2 yards per game - best in the NFL - and ranked second in points allowed. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed, especially when playoff-caliber defenses are built from the back end forward.
Vasso’s coaching pedigree runs deep. He’s been mentored by some of the most respected defensive minds in the game, including Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, current Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke, and Browns DC Jim Schwartz. He also brings experience from his time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, where he served as assistant defensive coordinator in 2020.
While new Titans head coach Robert Saleh is expected to retain play-calling duties on defense, the defensive coordinator role remains a crucial hire - especially for a team looking to reestablish its identity on that side of the ball. Vasso’s track record of developing young talent and his familiarity with multiple defensive schemes make him a compelling candidate.
Meanwhile, Houston’s coaching staff is drawing interest from around the league. Matt Burke, who oversaw the Texans’ dominant defensive unit this season, recently interviewed with the Arizona Cardinals via Zoom. While he’s not in the running for their head coaching job, his name continues to circulate in coordinator conversations.
The Texans’ success hasn’t just put coaches in the spotlight - front office personnel are also garnering attention. Assistant general manager James Liipfert interviewed for the Atlanta Falcons’ general manager opening, further highlighting the depth of Houston’s football operation.
On the offensive side, quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson has been requested by the Miami Dolphins for an interview regarding their offensive coordinator vacancy. Johnson has been instrumental in the development of Houston’s young quarterback room, and his potential move would be another sign of the Texans' rising stock across the league.
With multiple interviews swirling, Houston’s coaching tree is clearly growing - and fast. The Texans’ resurgence this season isn’t just about wins and stats; it’s about building a culture that’s now attracting attention from teams looking to replicate that same formula.