University A coach Leslie, who captained Otago straight after Latta in the 1990s, said he would not seek the Otago coaching position next year.
Leslie said he would like to be involved with the team in some role but was endorsing Latta for the top job.
Leslie, who is overseas, told the Otago Daily Times in an email he would not stand against Latta in the search for Steve Martin's replacement.
"I would love to have the opportunity to support David and the Otago team in 2010 in a role similar to that held by David himself this year," Leslie said.
He suggested that role be of team selector and support person to the Otago coaches and players.
"I am sure that I will learn a lot in this role and I am confident that I will add value to the Otago team environment.
"I am passionate to coach a successful Otago rugby team in the next few seasons."
Leslie played 123 games for Otago as a midfield back from 1991 to 2004, and he also played overseas, playing and captaining Scotland, and also having a short stint playing rugby in Japan.
He owns a rugby apparel and equipment company in Dunedin.
Leslie has coached University A the past couple of years, after starting his coaching career with the University Blue colts team for three years.
He is set to coach University A again next year.
With Leslie ruling himself out of the top job and endorsing Latta, the former Otago hooker appears to be a hot favourite to take the Otago job.
Latta was an Otago selector this year, helping out at training and also learning the ins and outs of the professional game from Martin and assistant coach Bruce Carvell.
He also coached the Otago Country side to a successful season, easily beating Southland Country and Canterbury Country and undertaking a successful short North Island tour.
He has indicated he is keen to put his name forward for the position.
Others who are rumoured to be considering putting their name forward include Carvell, Otago B and Alhambra-Union coach Mike Moeahu, and former Canterbury and Highlanders assistant coach John Haggart.
Former Highlanders assistant coach Murray Roulston has applied for the position.
Applications for the job close on November 20 with the new coach to be announced next month.
