After the New York Jets were projected to win no more than five games in the upcoming NFL season, they surpassed all odds and finished the year with an even 8-8 record. Behind all of this success is head coach Rex Ryan, who will retain his job for the foreseeable future according to Seth Walder of the New York Daily News.
Jets owner Woody Johnson said Ryan’s job was secure before the Jets game against the Cleveland Browns, but it was not made public until after the Jets’ final game in 2013.
The Jets entered the 2013-’14 season with a weak offense led by a rookie quarterback as well as a defense that was unproven. Ryan’s specialty is taking these defenses and turning them into premier rush defenses. Throughout the season, the Jets defensive line grew into a top three rush defense, allowing 88.25 rushing yards per game.
Even with the Jets offense struggling mightily, Ryan contributed to big victories over the New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and Miami Dolphins – eliminating the Dolphins from playoff contention in Week 17.
Ryan was–at one point–rumored to be on the hot seat because of the poor play of second round draft pick, in quarterback Geno Smith. Smith finished the year strong, not throwing an interception in the final two games of the season. However, he still finished with a 12-21 touchdown-to-interception ratio as well as seven fumbles.
Ryan told the Jets last week that he believed he would be fired at the end of the season – trying to motivate his team to end the season strong, which would ultimately help keep his job secure. His tactic as the Jets went on a two game win streak, as the offense did not turn the ball over once.
Ryan is slated to make around $3 million in 2014.