Former Colts Super Bowl winning coach Tony Dungy made headlines when he said he wouldn’t hire Rex Ryan after hearing Ryan’s profanity-laced speeches on Hard Knocks. Dungy’s extreme comment unfortunately buried his message that an NFL coach can be effective without swearing. While Dungy comes across as mild mannered, it’s not the first time he’s gotten in a zing on an opponent.
Had Dungy presented his commentary without invoking Goodell’s name and without saying he wouldn’t hire Rex Ryan, then the Jets coach probably would not have been quite so upset. As it was, things got completely out of hand. Ryan is surprisingly self-deprecating and sensitive, so the criticism had to have stung. Not only did the two talk things out “man-to-man” on Wednesday, but Dungy will also visit a Jets practice at some point.
The uniting factor between Dungy and Rex apparently is an anonymous figure who knows both men and spoke highly of Rex. Because of the positive recommendation, Dungy is going to see things first hand to learn what Rex is all about. Aside from wondering who the uniting figure is, the obvious question is: will Rex cuss while Dungy’s at practice or will he be on his best behavior?
Sources:
Dungy to visit Jets after a heart-to-heart with Rex [New York Post]
