Rex Ryan Eyeing Return as New York Jets Head Coach
In a developing story out of the NFL, the New York Jets are on the hunt for a new head coach, and a familiar face is reportedly in the mix. Rex Ryan, who guided the Jets from 2009 to 2014, is making no secret of his aspiration to reclaim the role. Ryan, whose last head coaching stint ended with the Buffalo Bills in 2016, recently interviewed for the position, signaling a potential return to the gridiron.
Ryan's years away from the sideline have not been spent idle. Transitioning into a media personality, he has remained connected to the sport, providing outspoken analysis and commentary on the game he loves. Now, it seems his passion for coaching is reigniting, and he's candid about why he believes he’s the best fit for the Jets.
"Oh, 100 percent, absolutely, I do," Ryan confidently asserted when asked about his chances of landing the job, adding, "The reason I think I'm going to get it is because I'm the best guy for it. It ain't close." Such self-assuredness is typical of Ryan, who has never shied away from expressing strong opinions both on and off the field.
The coaching vacancy comes at a crucial time for the Jets, who are also managing disciplinary issues with key players. Aaron Rodgers, a noteworthy figure even beyond his stellar quarterbacking skills, was fined $100,000 for missing last June's mandatory minicamp. Ryan’s no-nonsense stance on the situation indicates he may already be thinking about how to instill discipline within the team. "Clearly, when you have a guy that doesn't show up for mandatory minicamp -- and, by the way, he's your quarterback, coming off an injury -- I think that's an absolutely ridiculous message you send to the team," Ryan remarked.
The prospect of Ryan’s return raises questions about the team's potential dynamics under his leadership. Known for his defensive expertise and outspoken nature, Ryan emphasized his priorities, stating, "The way they play, that's the most important thing." For Jets fans yearning for a return to the team's competitive days under Ryan, this focus could be seen as a promising sign.
Should Ryan reclaim the head coach role, he is insistent that things would change. "If he comes back, things would be different. If he's back, it ain't gonna be the country club, show up whenever the hell you want to show up. That ain't gonna happen," he declared, hinting at a shift towards a more disciplined, structured team environment.
Ryan’s mention of Ben Johnson, a highly regarded figure in coaching circles, further underscored his belief in his capabilities. "It's not just the X's and O's and all that," Ryan elaborated. "This Ben Johnson, I love him, I absolutely love him, but I'm a better candidate for this job than he would be." Ryan's confidence, combined with his past experience with the Jets, makes his candidacy a topic of genuine intrigue in the NFL community.
As the Jets continue their search for a head coach, Ryan's potential return adds an exciting layer to the unfolding narrative. Whether or not the Jets decide to bring back their former coach remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Rex Ryan is ready and willing to lead the team once more, bringing his unmistakable style and fervor back to New York. The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal more about the direction of the Jets and potentially set the stage for a reunion that could reshape the future of the franchise.