Texans Assistant Dino Vasso Draws Interest as Cardinals Shift Defensive Search

The NFL coaching carousel is still spinning, and this time it involves a key member of the Houston Texans’ rising staff. The Arizona Cardinals have reportedly turned away from former candidate Matt Burke and are now focusing on Texans defensive assistant Dino Vasso as they search for their next defensive coordinator.

For fans in Houston, this development is worth following. Vasso has played a steady role in the Texans’ defensive resurgence under head coach DeMeco Ryans. His work with the secondary and passing defense helped Houston transform into one of the league’s more disciplined units last season. Losing him would mean another big vacancy on a staff that has already attracted outside attention.

Arizona’s shift toward Vasso suggests the Cardinals want a coach with strong player-development chops, something Houston fans have seen firsthand. The Texans’ defensive backfield improved significantly in both technique and communication, and Vasso’s fingerprints were all over that progress.

Why It Matters for Houston

The Texans are building a young, ambitious coaching culture. When outside teams come after assistants, it is both a compliment and a challenge. It reflects the success Ryans and his staff have created—but it also forces Houston to consider continuity, depth, and long-term development.

If Vasso leaves, the Texans may need to reshuffle responsibilities or promote internally. Either move could affect offseason planning as Houston prepares for a year loaded with expectations.

What’s Next

The Cardinals are expected to continue interviews through the coming days. If Vasso becomes the frontrunner, the Texans will need to move quickly to maintain stability on the defensive side of the ball. Fans should anticipate updates as the hiring process advances.

This article is a summary of reporting by Toro Times. Read the full story here.