Monte Kiffin has been identified as the Dallas Cowboys' preferred choice to become defensive coordinator.

Kiffin has emerged as the leading candidate from a list that also includes Ray Horton, a former Cowboys player and current Cardinals defensive coordinator.

Kiffin resigned as defensive coordinator at USC, where his son Lane is the head coach, and expressed his desire to return to the NFL.

Kiffin would transition the Cowboys from the 3-4 to 4-3, which would involve moving DeMarcus Ware to defensive end.