The hunt for a new defensive coordinator intensifies in Dallas as Rex Ryan, a name synonymous with aggressive defenses, reportedly throws his hat into the ring for the position with the Dallas Cowboys. This news, reported by CBS Sports‘ Josina Anderson and the Dallas Morning News, adds another experienced coach to the mix, joining established names like Ron Rivera and Mike Zimmer who have already interviewed for the role.
Ryan, now 61, boasts a lengthy NFL resume, particularly highlighted by his defensive coordinator stints. He initially rose to prominence in Baltimore, leading the Ravens’ defense to a Super Bowl XXXV victory as their defensive line coach. This defensive prowess translated to his head coaching career, where he spearheaded the New York Jets to consecutive AFC Championship appearances in 2009 and 2010. Despite falling short of the ultimate goal, Ryan’s defenses were known for their aggressive style and ability to generate turnovers, earning him the nickname “The Rexinator.”
While Ryan hasn’t been actively coaching in the NFL since 2016 after his tenure with the Buffalo Bills, he hasn’t shied away from expressing his desire to return to the league. He even entered the coaching carousel last offseason, interviewing for the Denver Broncos defensive coordinator position. Now, the opportunity in Dallas presents an intriguing possibility, potentially serving as a stepping stone back to a head coaching role.
The Cowboys, under head coach Mike McCarthy, are entering a crucial season. With McCarthy in the final year of his contract and mounting pressure to deliver results, bolstering the defense becomes a key priority. Ryan’s proven track record of building dominant defenses could be an attractive prospect for the Cowboys, who have lacked consistency on that side of the ball in recent years.
However, Ryan’s aggressive approach might not perfectly align with McCarthy’s more conservative philosophy. Additionally, his lengthy absence from the game raises questions about his ability to adapt to the ever-evolving NFL landscape. Nevertheless, Ryan’s experience, coupled with his undeniable fire and leadership qualities, makes him a compelling candidate for the Cowboys.
Ultimately, the decision of whether Rex Ryan becomes the next defensive coordinator in Dallas rests with Mike McCarthy and the Cowboys’ front office. Whether his aggressive style meshes with the team’s existing culture and if he can translate his past successes to the modern NFL remains to be seen. Regardless, his candidacy adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing saga of the Cowboys’ search for defensive leadership.