Report: Ray Lewis emerges as candidate for FAU coaching vacancy

Pro Football Hall of Famer Ray Lewis has emerged as a candidate to become Florida Atlantic's head coach, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

However, there's been no direct communication between Lewis and FAU, and he's highly unlikely to assume the role, sources told CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz.

"Ray wants it bad," a source told The Athletic's Bruce Feldman. Lewis lives in close proximity to FAU's campus.

Lewis has never coached before. The two-time Super Bowl winner previously worked as an analyst for Fox and ESPN following his retirement after the 2012 season.

There's been a growing trend of former NFL players who've transitioned to the college sideline. Colorado's Deion Sanders has led the Buffaloes to an 8-2 record in his second season, while former Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George is Tennessee State's head coach.

Florida Atlantic dismissed Tom Herman on Monday in his second season with the program. Herman established a 6-16 record as the head coach and went 0-6 in AAC competition this campaign. Chad Lunsford was named the interim coach for the remainder of the season.

Ole Miss offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. is considered the front-runner to be the Owls' next coach, per Feldman. Weis previously served as an assistant in 2018-19 under Lane Kiffin during his FAU tenure.

The 2-8 Owls are in the midst of a five-game losing streak.