Raiders reportedly want to interview Scott Linehan for coaching job

The Raiders have requested permission to speak with Dallas Cowboys passing game coordinator Scott Linehan, according to an ESPN report Sunday.

Linehan, 51, had an 11-25 record as the St. Louis Rams coach from 2006-08. He got fired four games into his third season, just as Dennis Allen did with the Raiders this season.

Linehan is in his first season with the Cowboys, who finished fifth in the league with an average of 29.3 points a game, thanks in part to the NFL’s leading rusher, DeMarco Murray with 1,320 yards, and Tony Romo, who led the league with a 113.2 passer rating.

Linehan reportedly had a one-year deal with the Cowboys, making him a free agent after the playoffs.

The Raiders already have interviewed Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur.

Others interested in the position or being considered include Raiders interim coach Tony Sparano, Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles and 49ers tight ends coach Eric Mangini.

Acho to campgain for NFLPA executive dirctor

Michigan-based attorney Jim Acho says he’s running for executive director of the NFL Players Association. The 44-year-old Acho has represented retired players and been an advocate for improving pension and medical benefits.

Acho says he expects to have no trouble obtaining the support of at least three current player representatives on the board of directors, which is the requirement to become a final candidate for executive director. He acknowledges that he would be a long shot to win the election in March. DeMaurice Smith has been the NFLPA’s executive director since 2009.