The Cowboys seem to have landed a quality defensive coordinator in Rob Ryan – at least one that is well respected and has some quality football genes.
But speaking at Super Bowl Media Day on Tuesday at Cowboys Stadium, a former player and current Steelers coach was hoping to get his name in the mix.
Ray Horton, who played for the Cowboys from 1989-92 and has spent the last six years coaching Pittsburgh's defensive backs, said he wished the Cowboys would've held off a bit before hiring Ryan two weeks ago.
"Yeah, I wish they would've waited on me," said Horton, who admitted there was an interest on both sides. "If you play at a place, you love to go home. It was unfortunate that Dallas couldn't wait. I'm sure they think they've got the right man in Rob. You wish them success and luck – no will ill. I would've been happy to have the right opportunity but hopefully they found the right guy for them."
Horton said defensive coordinator was the only position he would've liked to leave Pittsburgh. In other words, he has no interest in making lateral moves, just to get back to Dallas. Currently, there is no position available in the secondary as both Dave Campo and Brett Maxie are under contract for 2011.
"Pittsburgh is a great place – why would leave Pittsburgh to do the same job I'm doing now," Horton said. "That wouldn't be very smart."
He's right about that. Who would trade the chance to coach Troy Polamalu for Alan Ball or Gerald Sensabaugh – or anyone for that matter.
