The New York Jets are already working in the NFL to find a new head coach following the firing of Robert Saleh. Two established names on the candidate list are now known, one of whom is an old acquaintance from Gang Green.
Former Jets head coach Rex Ryan, who currently works as a TV pundit for ESPN, told ESPN New York Radio on Monday that he will have an interview with the Jets soon. In addition, “ESPN” reported that Ron Rivera will also talk to the Jets.
Ryan was asked directly on the radio whether there would be an interview with the Jets. His answer: “I think I will have one.” At the same time, however, he stated that he had not yet spoken to the team and that the process would only begin after the end of the regular season next week. “We’ll see what happens once the season is over.”
It is already known that the Jets have already conducted three job interviews with candidates for the general manager position, which is also open after Joe Douglas was fired. They’ve already spoken to former Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff, former Titans GM Jon Robinson and Jim Nagy, the executive director of college football’s annual Senior Bowl. Louis Riddick is also said to be a candidate. He also currently works as an expert for “ESPN”.
Jets rely on external help with search
The Jets are being supported in their search by 33rd Team, a media agency designed to provide data analysis and job search experience. The company is headed by former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum and former Vikings GM Rick Spielman. The 33rd team had already helped with the Washington Commanders’ coach and GM search last year.
Tannenbaum already has experience with Ryan and was the team’s GM when he was hired as head coach in 2009. Ryan led the Jets to the AFC Championship Game in each of his first two seasons, making him the last coach to lead the Jets to the playoffs. He ultimately went 46-50 in six seasons with the Jets. After his release after the 2014 season, he signed with the Buffalo Bills and went 15-16 there.
Rivera, in turn, worked as head coach of the Washington Commanders for four years until 2023. Previously, he was head coach of the Carolina Panthers for nine years and reached Super Bowl 50 with the team. Overall, he has a record of 102-103-2 in 13 seasons.