The New York Jets are fully expected to fire Rex Ryan at the end of the season. At that point, Ryan will have to decide if he wants to continue coaching in 2015 or take some time off to pursue television opportunities.
If Ryan does decide he wants to coach next season, Bleacher Report’s Jason Cole is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons could be a possible destination for him.
Couple of sources reiterated today that Rex Ryan to #Falcons seems natural considering need to upgrade D & that he interviewed there in 2008
— Jason Cole (@JasonPhilCole) December 19, 2014
Cole’s report coincides with a similar report from Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News, who notes that Falcons owner Arthur Blank is looking to “ignite a frustrated fan base” and “change the culture of his team.”
“Arthur wants a tougher team,” a source told Mehta. “He wants guys that have an edge to them.”
Ryan is said to have impressed Blank during his interview with the Falcons in 2008, but Atlanta ultimately decided to go with Mike Smith. Ryan then remained with the Baltimore Ravens for a season before being hired as the Jets’ head coach in 2009.
If Blank is looking to create a buzz, it makes sense that Ryan would be his man. That said, the Falcons still have a shot to make the playoffs this season in an abysmal NFC South division. If they happen to win a playoff game, will the team be able to justify firing Smith?
While it’s possible that Ryan is a better defensive coordinator than head coach, he deserves another shot. We have seen how dysfunctional the Jets’ front office has become in recent years. Rex is better than a 3-11 coach.
