It seems that Rex Ryan will not be returning to coach the New York Jets after all.
Shortly after one of Gang Green’s targets, Mike Vrabel signed on to join the division-rival New England Patriots, a report from SNY’s Connor Hughes indicated that they were completely out on their former head coach, who led the team to two straight AFC title game appearances in 2009 and 2010.
Ryan had been adamant, and almost cocky, about the Jets’ job, saying he was “100%” certain that he would be making his way back to MetLife Stadium to coach the team he spent six seasons with. He ranks third in franchise history in both games coached and wins.
He even went as far as to say on Sunday’s episode of ESPN’s NFL Countdown that “hopefully I get to kick this guy’s ass twice a year,” while referring to Vrabel.
Instead, Ryan will likely have to settle for keeping his seat as a television analyst. The Jets’ head-coaching search has already been an expansive one, having already conducted eight interviews. Notable meetings include former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera, former Gang Green cornerback and Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, and former Chicago Bears head coach and current Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy.
