The New York Jets are wasting no time finding their next head coach. Former Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera, 62, is set to be the first candidate interviewed for the vacancy, according to sources. Meanwhile, speculation around a possible return for ex-Jets coach Rex Ryan continues to heat up.
Rivera’s interview is scheduled ahead of the Jets‘ season finale against the Miami Dolphins. Despite his dismissal from Washington following a disappointing 4-13 season, Rivera brings a wealth of experience to the table. With a career record of 98-90-2 as a head coach, Rivera boasts an NFC Championship title and two NFL Coach of the Year awards during his nine-year stint with the Carolina Panthers.
During his time in Washington, Rivera led the team to one playoff appearance in 2020 after clinching the NFC East with a 7-9 record. Although his tenure ended on a sour note, Rivera’s leadership qualities and defensive expertise make him a compelling candidate for the Jets.
Rex Ryan eyes a return to the Big Apple
While Rivera’s interview is locked in, the possibility of Rex Ryan reclaiming the Jets‘ helm is gaining momentum. Ryan, who famously coached the Jets from 2009 to 2014, confirmed on ESPN NY Radio that he expects to receive an interview for the position.
“I believe I will,” Ryan said confidently, adding that no formal conversations have taken place yet. Known for his bold personality and defensive prowess, Ryan led the Jets to back-to-back AFC Championship appearances in his first two seasons, making him a fan favorite in New York.
Since leaving the Jets, Ryan has stayed in the public eye as an ESPN analyst, where he hasn’t been shy about expressing interest in returning to the sidelines.
The #Jets are scheduled to interview Ron Rivera for their head coaching job this week, per sources.
In 13 seasons with Carolina and Washington, Rivera made the playoffs five times, including an appearance in Super Bowl 50. The first of many HC interviews to come in NYJ’s search. pic.twitter.com/Tnbw2nS8Ja
? Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 30, 2024
What’s next for the Jets?
The Jets fired head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas earlier this season, signaling a complete overhaul of their leadership. Former GM Mike Tannenbaum’s consultancy firm, The 33rd Team, has been enlisted to help with the search for both positions.
While Rivera’s credentials and Ryan’s legacy dominate the headlines, the Jets are casting a wide net. Candidates like Thomas Dimitroff, Jon Robinson, and Louis Riddick are being considered for the GM role.
With Rivera’s interview imminent and Ryan’s candidacy stirring excitement, the Jets‘ next chapter is shaping up to be a thrilling saga for fans and analysts alike.
