Report: Bill Davis enters the mix for the Browns' defensive coordinator opening

In this Aug. 2, 2010, photo Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Bill Davis watches his players during NFL football training camp in Flagstaff, Ariz. Arizona fired Bill Davis, a member of the Cardinals' staff since Ken Whisenhunt became coach in 2007, according to a statement the team released Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Matt York)

View Larger Version >>

Former Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Bill Davis interviewed today for a chance to take control of the Browns' defense, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.

Davis, a 45-year-old Youngstown native, was recently fired by the Cardinals after they finished with a record of 5-11 and their defense ranked 29th out of the 32 teams in the NFL. He served as the Cardinals' defensive coordinator for the past two seasons.

Before joining the Cardinals as a linebackers coach in 2007, Davis was the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers (2005-06). He has been an assistant coach in the NFL for 19 years, including one season as the Browns' linebackers coach (1999).

Davis also has other strong ties to the Browns. His father, Bill, worked for 13 years in the NFL, including six years as the Browns' vice president of player personnel. Davis, a former quarterback at the University of Cincinnati, started his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Michigan State University (1990-91). New Browns coach Pat Shurmur, 45, coached tight ends, special teams and offensive line for MSU during the same time.

In addition to Davis, the Browns have interviewed at last two other candidates to replace Rob Ryan, who is now the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator. The team met with former University of Pittsburgh coach Dave Wannstedt today, a league source said. The Browns also interviewed Philadelphia Eagles defensive backs coach Dick Jauron on Tuesday and Wednesday, another league source said.