Why did Rex Ryan leave the Jets? Exploring former HC’s record and exit

The New York Jets have been a huge letdown in 2024. Although quarterback Aaron Rodgers returned from injury this season and the team acquired star wide receiver Davante Adams through a trade in the middle of the season, they are 4-12 and have been eliminated from postseason contention, extending their drought to 14 years.

Since 2010, when coach Ryan Rex guided the team to the AFC Championship Game for the second straight season, the franchise hasn't advanced to the postseason.

Ryan went on to spend four more seasons with the Jets after that 2010 season but was eventually sacked in December 2014.

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Exploring the reason for Rex Ryan's sack in 2014

Rex Ryan was named as coach of the New York Jets in 2009 after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens for four years. He guided New York to winning records of 9-7 and 11-5 in his first two campaigns and made back-to-back trips to the AFC Championship Game.

However, the Jets were unable to return to the postseason in the 62-year-old's final four campaigns, recording an overall record of 26-38. Disappointing passing performances plagued this period, as neither Geno Smith nor Mark Sanchez were able to solidify themselves as reliable options at the position.

Rex Ryan lost his job as coach of the Jets after they finished the 2014 season with a dismal 4–12 record. He was appointed the coach of the Buffalo Bills shortly after leaving the Jets but was dismissed at the end of the 2016 season after two years.

Later, Ryan got a job at ESPN, where he still works as an analyst now.

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Rex Ryan expected to interview for New York Jets' vacant coach role

The New York Jets are finally beginning to search for a coach to take over their vacant position, with just one week remaining in the 2024 regular season.

The organization is reportedly scheduled to conduct interviews with two candidates in the coming weeks to replace Robert Saleh, who was let go following Week 5 of this season.

Rex Ryan, one of the candidates, revealed on Monday on 880AM ESPN New York that he intends to speak with the Jets regarding the opening once the regular season concludes.

According to ESPN, the team is also planning to interview Ron Rivera, who led the Carolina Panthers as coach from 2011 to 2029. He also served as the Washington Commanders' coach for four years before his dismissal in 2023.

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich took over as interim coach when Saleh was sacked in October. He's expected to be in charge for the last time this weekend, when the Jets face off against the Miami Dolphins in their final game of the season.