Vance Joseph out of running as Cardinals HC but not released from contract
The Arizona Cardinals have narrowed their search for a head coach to three candidates. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, one of the first to interview for the job, is out of the running, according to reports.
Joseph, however, has not been released from his contract. He signed a two-year extension before last season. That means that he could remain with the Cardinals in his current role. He cannot yet interview for other DC jobs. Many teams have reported interest in him if he is released from his contract.
The three coaching finalists are reportedly Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, Bengals DC Lou Anarumo and Steelers defensive assistant Brian Flores.
If Kafka were named head coach, Joseph could remain the defensive coordinator. That would be a situation similar to when he was hired in 2019. Kliff Kingsbury had not been an NFL head coach, and neither has Kafka. Joseph has.
Joseph worked with Anarumo on the staff of the Miami Dolphins in 2016, when Joseph was defensive coordinator and Anarumo coached the defensive backs.
Joseph has not worked with Flores previously.
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