Rex Ryan has officially been fired by the New York Jets on Black Monday after a long 6-year tenure. The former head coach “led New York to the AFC title game twice in his first two seasons and even scored a book deal and contract extension.” However, things pretty much died down afterwards, as the Jets NEVER made it to another playoffs, ending this season with a horrible record of 4-12…yet it seems feelings are mutual, as Ryan couldn’t wait to leave NY, cleaning out his office WAY before Sunday’s game. Further details on this story and the Jets’ future plans below
Jets owner Woody Johnson issued a statement following the news.
“Both Rex and John made significant contributions to the team, and they have my appreciation and gratitude for their efforts and commitment. Over the years, Rex brought the Jets a bold confidence and a couple of great post-season runs, which all of us will remember.
“I am beginning our search for new football leadership, effective immediately, with guidance and support from respected football experts, including Charley Casserly and Ron Wolf, two Super Bowl winners with decades of valuable experience.”
Could the Jets’ previous rapid success have overshadowed the flaws that Rex Ryan actually had all along?
Ryan’s rapid rise in New York was able to mask some talent deficiencies that were always boiling underneath the surface, deficiencies that were made worse under Idzik’s brief tenure. Despite a wealth of cap space and surplus of draft picks, the general manager could not supply a sturdy option under center, or a reliable cornerback to operate within Ryan’s defense.
The defensive-minded coach’s time was marred by inconsistent quarterback play, a knock on his resume that he was never able to overcome despite going through several different coordinators. The team drafted two quarterbacks in the first or second round — Mark Sanchez and Geno Smith — neither of whom could buoy an offense strong enough to complement Ryan’s dominant defenses. Ryan leaves the Jets with a 46-50 record.
via NFL