“I bleed green and white” - Ex-NFL coach Rex Ryan delivers impassioned pitch for vacant Jets job

Rex Ryan's pitch to return as the New York Jets coach is more than professional ambition—it's personal legacy. Buddy Ryan, Rex's father, was an NFL assistant coach known for his defensive genius. His Super Bowl III ring is a testament to the Ryan family's deep NFL roots.

Rex's first stint with the Jets from 2009 to 2014 was a rollercoaster of dramatic highs and frustrating lows. He led the team to back-to-back AFC championship games in his first two seasons, generating massive excitement among fans. His overall record was 46-50, with four playoff wins—the most in Jets franchise history.

Rex Ryan said during a November 24 interview on ESPN's Greeny show:

"I think, getting another shot, I mean, there's one thing I'm missing and that's to win the Super Bowl as a head coach.

"And that's what I want. And the organization I want to do that with is the New York Jets because you, because I bleed green and white."

The 2024 Jets present a desperate scenario. With a 3-8 record and just a 2% chance of making the playoffs, the team has already fired coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers' return and the midseason trade for Davante Adams failed to spark the expected turnaround.

Rex Ryan is charged up to create a winning team

Rex Ryan Syndication: USA TODAY - Source: Imagn

Rex Ryan sees an opportunity where others see chaos.

"There's way too much talent on this team to play the way we've been playing," he argued on ESPN New York on Nov. 22. "If I took over, it'd be turned around in about two minutes. It starts with the passion and the energy I would bring."

His critique extended to the team's offensive strategy.

"That offense is about 20 years behind its time," Ryan stated.

He claimed the current scheme is predictable and he can anticipate plays despite being eight years removed from coaching.

Statistically, the Jets rank 26th in both yards and points per game—a far cry from the competitive teams Ryan once led. He's convinced the current roster is more talented than any he coached previously.

After his Jets tenure, Ryan spent two seasons with the Buffalo Bills, posting a 15-16 record without a playoff appearance. He was fired in 2016 and transitioned to an ESPN analyst role.

"I've let everybody know I'd be interested," Rex Ryan declared on First Take on Friday. "I have some unfinished business with that franchise. I just think I would get back in it if I could make a difference."

The pitch is bold, but the opportunity to return to the team that defined his coaching identity remains an interesting proposition.