The New York Jets have hired former Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator Rex Ryan as their new head coach. The Jets fired Eric Mangini a few weeks ago after the team finished out of the playoffs. Ryan wore a green striped tie, a bulky suit and a big smile when he was introduced to the media on Wednesday as the 17th head coach of the team. Former coaches include Sammy Baugh, Weeb Ewbank, Bill Parcells and Herm Edwards.
The new head coach, who is 46 years old, inked a four-year contract that is reportedly worth $11.6 million. At this point, the new coach is unsure as to whether or not 39-year-old quarterback and NFL legend Brett Favre will return to the team. Favre is reportedly contemplating retirement once again.
Ryan, who is the son of former NFL defensive coach Buddy Ryan, ran one of the finest defenses in the NFL. Rex’s dad, who is now 74-years-old, was contacted by the media and said that his son is “qualified and certified.” Buddy Ryan added that he felt that the Jets “did theirselves a good favor by hiring him. He’s happy with the job, that’s what he wanted.” Buddy Ryan was an assistant coach for the 1969 New York Jets Championship team. That was 40 years ago and the last time the franchise was in the Super Bowl.
Head coach Ryan exuded confidence in his press conference, saying, “I’m not a one-hit wonder. When you look at my background, I think I’ve been successful at all stops along the way. I know the kind of responsibility it takes to be a head football coach.” He added, “Again, you got the right guy – and I plan on proving that each and every week.”
It was a very optimistic first day for the rookie head coach.