Rob Ryan is the latest NFL defensive coordinator whom the Carolina Panthers are seeking permission to speak with about their vacant head-coaching job, *The Charlotte Observer* reported Wednesday, citing two league sources.
Ryan was on Eric Mangini's staff with the Cleveland Browns this season, his 13th as an NFL assistant. Ryan is son of longtime NFL coach Buddy Ryan and the twin brother of New York Jets coach Rex Ryan.
The Browns finished 13th in the league in points allowed per game (20.8) but 22nd in yards allowed (332).
Ryan joins a Panthers prospect list that includes fellow coordinators Greg Manusky of the San Francisco 49ers, Ron Rivera of the San Diego Chargers and Perry Fewell of the New York Giants.
The 49ers were sixth in defending the rush (96.7 yards per game) and 13th in yards per game (327.8) but were 16th in scoring (21.6), 24th in receiving yards allowed per game (231) and 25th in receiving yards allowed (3,941).
The Chargers led the league in yards allowed per game (271.6) and were 10th in points allowed (20.1).
The Giants led league in fumbles forced and recovered but were 17th in points allowed (21.7).