Rex Ryan understands that the recent history of the New York Jets does not work in his favor. The team has been headlined more by quarterback and tea controversies than wins. This season has certainly see its ups and downs as the Jets work behind rookie quarterback Geno Smith. Will Ryan get a chance to coach next season? He is admitting that he really is not sure.
According to FOX Sports, Ryan told Jets' players during the Cleveland Browns game that he expects to be fired at the end of the season. The Jets came out with a win on Sunday, but his outlook for the remainder of the season is not positive. Ryan said he heard the "word on the street" was that he would be out.
"I know I have a contract for next year," Ryan said, via ESPNNewYork.com. "What I do know, guys, is that I'm coaching this team. I've said this all season long: My job is to focus on the present and what's right now."
At best, the Jets can finish 8-8 on the season and will miss the playoffs once again for the third-straight year. The Jets have a new general manager in John Idzik and he may aim to hire his own guy. It is the typical story of the NFL and Ryan is aware that while he made something out of nothing this season, it might not be enough.
"Whether the report is accurate or not, I'm going to tell you this: Those things will stay in-house. You can rip me for that one if you want, that's fine and dandy," Ryan said.
Ryan described the Jets as a team on the rise. Despite the struggles of the year, he truly believes this is a squad that is capable of a lot and the players believe him. Linebacker Calvin Pace told media that everyone supports Ryan and loves playing for the head coach. Wide receiver David Nelson echoed those words saying not every loss falls on Ryan's shoulders.
Is Ryan safe for at least one more season? He certainly has done more with the Jets this season than many expected. Smith has played well at some points and looked terrible during others. Sources believe Ryan is simply coaching up a squad that will be lead by someone else in 2014. The final game of the season will speak volumes as to what happens with Ryan next year.
