New York Jets coach Rex Ryan is likely to return as coach of the team despite missing the playoffs for the third straight year, according to two sources close to ESPN.com.
The ESPN report said that an NFL executive expressed belief that Ryan will be back coaching the team next season despite speculation he would be axed after this season. Another source said that "the atmosphere surrounding Ryan's status has turned from negative to positive."
Although they have exceeded expectations this season, the Jets have missed the playoffs in each of the past three years under Ryan, who owns a 41-38 career record. New York advanced to the AFC Championship Game in each of its first two seasons with Ryan.
Both sources however, agree that what is up in the air is whether the coach will enter the last year of his contract next season, or whether the team will give him an extension something that Ryan prefers.
Ryan is nearing the completion of his fifth season with the Jets, who can finish with an 8-8 record if they upset the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Although the team has played above expectations this season, the Jets will miss the playoffs for the third straight year. Ryan, who has a career record of 41-38, led them to the AFC Championship Game in his first two seasons as coach.
Despite getting support from Jets owner Woody Johnson, Ryan has been perceived to be lacking in support from freshman general manager John Idzik. Likewise, the Jets have at least a half dozen assistant coaches including defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman on expiring contracts.
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