Sometimes, in order to go forward, you must go back. That is at least what Rex Ryan is hoping for when he interviews with the New York Jets. Ryan will be interviewing with the Jets on Tuesday, per the NFL Networks’ Ian Rapoport.
Ryan, 62, coached the Jets for six seasons from 2009-2014 and led them to back-to-back AFC Championship games, with a record of 46-50 with the team. Since the firing of head coach Robert Saleh in October, Ryan has been very open about wanting a chance to coach the Jets again.
“I’d like to, there’s no doubt about it, I’ve let everyone know that I definitely would be interested in that job, even though I’ve got a great gig,” Ryan said on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” in November. Ryan is currently an analyst for ESPN and has been with them since April 2017.
Despite loving his job in the media, he would love the chance to man the sidelines again in East Rutherford, NJ. Ryan believes he has some unfinished business with the franchise, especially since his dad, Buddy Ryan, won a Super Bowl with the team.
The Jets haven’t made the playoffs since Ryan led them to consecutive AFC Championship Games, which were in 2009 and 2010. Ryan was fired by the Jets in 2014 after going 4-12, and went on to coach the Buffalo Bills for nearly two seasons before getting fired again. The Jets have already interviewed former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel for the position.
The Jets are currently 4-12, with their final game coming at home against the Miami Dolphins, who are fighting for a playoff berth.
