Cimini: Rex Ryan looked and sounded like 2009 Rex

C Mart · 01-09-2013, 10:21 AM

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- After receiving a strong vote of confidence from his owner, New York Jets coach Rex Ryan ended his nine-day media silence Tuesday, describing 2013 as a "new beginning" and blaming himself for the team's long-struggling offense.

Ryan showed up for the highly anticipated news conference sporting the same green-striped tie he wore four years ago when he was introduced as head coach, underscoring his fresh-start theme. At one point, it sounded like he was reading from his 2009 notes.

"We're going to be a dangerous football team, I can promise you that," he said. "How many wins and all that, I don't know. But I'm going to tell you:

You're not going to want to play the New York Jets because I know the mentality we're going to take."

The outspoken Ryan, who admitted he was concerned about getting fired after the 6-10 season, said he did some soul searching on his well-chronicled trip to the Bahamas. He said they have to be more aggressive and unpredictable on offense.

In other words, the old-school approach -- "Ground And Pound" -- is dead.

Ryan wouldn't address the future of Mark Sanchez, but he said the quarterback position will be an open competition. Owner Woody Johnson, who also attended the news conference, reiterated his belief in Ryan. Johnson confirmed an ESPNNewYork.com report that the new general manager -- when he's hired -- will be forced to keep Ryan for at least one season. Johnson declined to say if the GM will have control over Ryan's fate in 2014.

Johnson, who fired longtime GM Mike Tannenbaum after the season, also revealed that Ryan will be involved in the hiring process. The Jets scheduled a second interview with Atlanta Falcons director of player personnel David Caldwell for Tuesday. But Caldwell was hired as GM of the Jacksonville Jaguars, a source told ESPN.

"I think Rex Ryan is perfect for the New York Jets," said Johnson, claiming he never considered the possibility of firing Ryan despite a 14-18 record since their second appearance in the AFC Championship Game.

After violating the NFL media policy by refusing to speak last week, Johnson and Ryan tried to put a positive spin on an organization in major transition.

Johnson actually said the team is "moving in the right direction."

But there are many moving parts.

Ryan confirmed that he fired offensive coordinator Tony Sparano after only one season. He hired Sparano because of their likeminded philosophy in running the ball, but the Jets stumbled to 30th in total offense.

They already have begun the search for a replacement. Norv Turner and Cam Cameron are on the short list. Ryan, often criticized for caring only about defense, admitted he hasn't done a good job of creating an offensive identity.

"I've come up short, in my opinion, for four years," said Ryan, who will be hiring his third coordinator. "I don't think I've done a good a job as implementing who I am throughout this team. ... I don't think it necessarily has gotten through, from a schematic standpoint, to anything offensively.

"I've failed in that area. For whatever reason, it's hard to see that, but I think it's clear that's where I've come up short."

Ryan also is on the verge of changing defensive coordinators. Mike Pettine, whose contract is expiring, is out; he will interview Tuesday for the same position with the Buffalo Bills. Secondary coach Dennis Thurman is expected to be promoted to coordinator.

Longtime assistant special teams coach Ben Kotwica will replace the retiring coordinator Mike Westhoff, Ryan said.

Even when Ryan completes his staff, his future will remain a question. He has only two years remaining on his contract, meaning he'll be working for a new boss in a make-or-break season -- a daunting challenge on a team with so many holes.

Ryan said he's not concerned about the lame-duck perception.

"I don't look at it that way," he said. "I look at it like I have an opportunity. I'm excited about the opportunity in front of me. This is a beginning for me. That's how I approach it. I'm going to attack it with the same energy and passion I did from Day One."

Johnson, too, insisted he's not worried about Ryan co-existing with a new GM. The new GM will have final say on personnel matters, Johnson said, but he also said it would be "a collaborative process." He doesn't think his keep-Ryan mandate scared away any potential candidates.

Johnson praised Ryan for conceding his failures on the offensive side of the ball.

"The only way you're going to get better is admitting what you haven't done so far," he said. "If you kind of gloss over it, you're not going to get better. One of the things that impresses me about Rex as a leader is he knows where he wants to improve and he's committed to do that.

"I trust him. I have total confidence in Rex as a head coach and a leader and motivator and as a play caller, if he has to do it. He's capable of doing all those things."

Ryan also is capable of captivating the media, which he did last week during his getaway to the Bahamas, where a photographer caught a never-before-seen tattoo -- his half-naked wife wearing a Mark Sanchez jersey.

The coach confirmed that he got it nearly three years ago.

"I know what you're thinking: Obviously, if Sanchez doesn't play better, that number is going to change," he said, laughing. "I've been married 25 years and, in my eyes, my wife is the most beautiful woman in the world."

ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter contributed to this story.

http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/stor...-new-beginning

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:23 AM

Until he backs up what he says with action, these are just words.

Don't judge a man by what he says, but by what he does.

RMJK · 01-09-2013, 10:25 AM

Everyone learns from mistakes; hopefully Rex understand where the team fell apart and has the motivation and clarity to make the right changes. He can start with getting a franchise QB.

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RMJK

Everyone learns from mistakes; hopefully Rex understand where the team fell apart and has the motivation and clarity to make the right changes. He can start with getting a franchise QB.

Beerfish · 01-09-2013, 10:36 AM

I have been encouraged by a few things.

He finally admits he has made mistakes and will learn from them.
He has realized that ground and pound by itself is simply not a concept that will win.
He had the guts to fire Sparano and in essence admit he totally blew it on that hire.
He did not come out and endorse Sanchez as his guy.

All of these things are positives.

rextilleon · 01-09-2013, 10:37 AM

After hearing him yesterday---I am now convinced that Rex Ryan is not the brightest bulb in the chandelier.

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Beerfish

I have been encouraged by a few things.

He finally admits he has made mistakes and will learn from them.
He has realized that ground and pound by itself is simply not a concept that will win.
He had the guts to fire Sparano and in essence admit he totally blew it on that hire.
He did not come out and endorse Sanchez as his guy.

All of these things are positives.

I'm hopeful, but Rex has promised things in the past that haven't happened. Can't really recall what those things were, but I think they were kinda important...

Untouchable · 01-09-2013, 10:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Beerfish

I have been encouraged by a few things.

He finally admits he has made mistakes and will learn from them.
He has realized that ground and pound by itself is simply not a concept that will win.
He had the guts to fire Sparano and in essence admit he totally blew it on that hire.
He did not come out and endorse Sanchez as his guy.

All of these things are positives.

Exactly

All of this outrage is hilarious to me.

Isn't all of this EXACTLY what we wanted?

- Tanny...gone
- Shades/Cavanaugh...gone
- Rex taking a more modern day approach to offense
- Even if Sanchez remains on the roster, nothing will be handed to him just because of his contract situation

I'm happy as a pig in sh*t right now.

Fishooked · 01-09-2013, 10:43 AM

2009

yesterday

same tie?

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Untouchable

Exactly

All of this outrage is hilarious to me.

Isn't all of this EXACTLY what we wanted?

- Tanny...gone
- Shades/Cavanaugh...gone
- Rex taking a more modern day approach to offense
- Even if Sanchez remains on the roster, nothing will be handed to him just because of his contract situation

I'm happy as a pig in sh*t right now.

Pretty accurately describes our organization.

BamaJets · 01-09-2013, 10:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Untouchable

Exactly

All of this outrage is hilarious to me.

Isn't all of this EXACTLY what we wanted?

- Tanny...gone
- Shades/Cavanaugh...gone
- Rex taking a more modern day approach to offense
- Even if Sanchez remains on the roster, nothing will be handed to him just because of his contract situation

I'm happy as a pig in sh*t right now.

I know, right?! This is called moving in the right direction. At least, decisions made to get things moving in the right direction. I thought this is what everyone was clamoring for?

True, Rex must implement these things and not just say them, but still ... fans should be encouraged. Alas, those who have already made up their mind about Rex won't be happy. No such thing as another chance in their book.

Warfish · 01-09-2013, 10:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by McGinley

Until he backs up what he says with action, these are just words.

Don't judge a man by what he says, but by what he does.

Agreed.

Rex's future will be determined by what he does with the talent he has in 2013. As it should be.

With that said, at least they are (generally) the RIGHT words.

I'm in agreement with Untouchable. I'm very pleased by the moves thus far, and pleased that (IMO) Rex is on a very short-leash for 2013.

If he fails, he's gone. I believe that. And if he fails because he sticks with Sanchez....well, thats his choice, and he'll reap the consequences. As it should be.

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fishooked

2009

yesterday

same tie?

Rex has really lost a lot of weight. Good for him.

BamaJets · 01-09-2013, 10:50 AM

Remember in 2009 and 2010 when Rex could do no wrong? Talking big, but they were playing big. Last season he talked big, but they didn't play as big. This season talking was down and so was the play. And what does much of the fan base do in response? Turn their backs on the team.

And now he is trying to get back into everyone's good graces by doing so many things that the fans asked for (firings/benchings/soon-to-be cuttings), yet many of you still don't want to hear it. "Get rid of him," you say. No chance to redeem yourself!

jeez, hope you treat your peers differently.

McGinley · 01-09-2013, 10:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BamaJets

Remember in 2009 and 2010 when Rex could do no wrong? Talking big, but they were playing big. Last season he talked big, but they didn't play as big. This season talking was down and so was the play. And what does much of the fan base do in response? Turn their backs on the team.

And now he is trying to get back into everyone's good graces by doing so many things that the fans asked for (firings/benchings/soon-to-be cuttings), yet many of you still don't want to hear it. "Get rid of him," you say. No chance to redeem yourself!

jeez, hope you treat your peers differently.

My peers aren't running my favorite football team into the ground. If they were, I'd post about them on forums as well.

jetsfan920 · 01-09-2013, 11:18 AM

Actions speak louder than words.

SizzleBear287 · 01-09-2013, 08:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by C Mart

"I think Rex Ryan is perfect for the New York Jets," said Johnson, claiming he never considered the possibility of firing Ryan despite a 14-18 record since their second appearance in the AFC Championship Game.

[/I]

That quote sends shivers down my spine- Woody is about as credible as Casey Anthony.

SAR I · 01-09-2013, 08:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Beerfish

I have been encouraged by a few things.

He finally admits he has made mistakes and will learn from them.
He has realized that ground and pound by itself is simply not a concept that will win.
He had the guts to fire Sparano and in essence admit he totally blew it on that hire.
He did not come out and endorse Sanchez as his guy.

All of these things are positives.

I want what you're drinking.

SAR I

Jungle Shift Jet · 01-09-2013, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Untouchable

Exactly

All of this outrage is hilarious to me.

Isn't all of this EXACTLY what we wanted?

- Tanny...gone
- Shades/Cavanaugh...gone
- Rex taking a more modern day approach to offense
- Even if Sanchez remains on the roster, nothing will be handed to him just because of his contract situation

I'm happy as a pig in sh*t right now.

Sorry, SOJF whiners want it all blown up.

Not a pound of flesh but a ton

Rex, Woody, the whole thing, starting over in Queens as an Expansion Franchise with a Domed
Stadium and hosting teh Final 4.

Surprised theyre not demanding the NFL adopt the NBA rules and have Sanchez be an Amnesty cut

ARodFLKeysJetsFan · 01-09-2013, 08:20 PM

I think Rex is growing as a HC, yes he's made mistakes, but I for one am glad he is our HC.

01-09-2013, 10:21 AM	#1
C Mart Jets Insider VIP Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 21,278	Cimini: Rex Ryan looked and sounded like 2009 Rex FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- After receiving a strong vote of confidence from his owner, New York Jets coach Rex Ryan ended his nine-day media silence Tuesday, describing 2013 as a "new beginning" and blaming himself for the team's long-struggling offense. Ryan showed up for the highly anticipated news conference sporting the same green-striped tie he wore four years ago when he was introduced as head coach, underscoring his fresh-start theme. At one point, it sounded like he was reading from his 2009 notes. "We're going to be a dangerous football team, I can promise you that," he said. "How many wins and all that, I don't know. But I'm going to tell you: You're not going to want to play the New York Jets because I know the mentality we're going to take." The outspoken Ryan, who admitted he was concerned about getting fired after the 6-10 season, said he did some soul searching on his well-chronicled trip to the Bahamas. He said they have to be more aggressive and unpredictable on offense. In other words, the old-school approach -- "Ground And Pound" -- is dead. Ryan wouldn't address the future of Mark Sanchez, but he said the quarterback position will be an open competition. Owner Woody Johnson, who also attended the news conference, reiterated his belief in Ryan. Johnson confirmed an ESPNNewYork.com report that the new general manager -- when he's hired -- will be forced to keep Ryan for at least one season. Johnson declined to say if the GM will have control over Ryan's fate in 2014. Johnson, who fired longtime GM Mike Tannenbaum after the season, also revealed that Ryan will be involved in the hiring process. The Jets scheduled a second interview with Atlanta Falcons director of player personnel David Caldwell for Tuesday. But Caldwell was hired as GM of the Jacksonville Jaguars, a source told ESPN. "I think Rex Ryan is perfect for the New York Jets," said Johnson, claiming he never considered the possibility of firing Ryan despite a 14-18 record since their second appearance in the AFC Championship Game. After violating the NFL media policy by refusing to speak last week, Johnson and Ryan tried to put a positive spin on an organization in major transition. Johnson actually said the team is "moving in the right direction." But there are many moving parts. Ryan confirmed that he fired offensive coordinator Tony Sparano after only one season. He hired Sparano because of their likeminded philosophy in running the ball, but the Jets stumbled to 30th in total offense. They already have begun the search for a replacement. Norv Turner and Cam Cameron are on the short list. Ryan, often criticized for caring only about defense, admitted he hasn't done a good job of creating an offensive identity. "I've come up short, in my opinion, for four years," said Ryan, who will be hiring his third coordinator. "I don't think I've done a good a job as implementing who I am throughout this team. ... I don't think it necessarily has gotten through, from a schematic standpoint, to anything offensively. "I've failed in that area. For whatever reason, it's hard to see that, but I think it's clear that's where I've come up short." Ryan also is on the verge of changing defensive coordinators. Mike Pettine, whose contract is expiring, is out; he will interview Tuesday for the same position with the Buffalo Bills. Secondary coach Dennis Thurman is expected to be promoted to coordinator. Longtime assistant special teams coach Ben Kotwica will replace the retiring coordinator Mike Westhoff, Ryan said. Even when Ryan completes his staff, his future will remain a question. He has only two years remaining on his contract, meaning he'll be working for a new boss in a make-or-break season -- a daunting challenge on a team with so many holes. Ryan said he's not concerned about the lame-duck perception. "I don't look at it that way," he said. "I look at it like I have an opportunity. I'm excited about the opportunity in front of me. This is a beginning for me. That's how I approach it. I'm going to attack it with the same energy and passion I did from Day One." Johnson, too, insisted he's not worried about Ryan co-existing with a new GM. The new GM will have final say on personnel matters, Johnson said, but he also said it would be "a collaborative process." He doesn't think his keep-Ryan mandate scared away any potential candidates. Johnson praised Ryan for conceding his failures on the offensive side of the ball. "The only way you're going to get better is admitting what you haven't done so far," he said. "If you kind of gloss over it, you're not going to get better. One of the things that impresses me about Rex as a leader is he knows where he wants to improve and he's committed to do that. "I trust him. I have total confidence in Rex as a head coach and a leader and motivator and as a play caller, if he has to do it. He's capable of doing all those things." Ryan also is capable of captivating the media, which he did last week during his getaway to the Bahamas, where a photographer caught a never-before-seen tattoo -- his half-naked wife wearing a Mark Sanchez jersey. The coach confirmed that he got it nearly three years ago. "I know what you're thinking: Obviously, if Sanchez doesn't play better, that number is going to change," he said, laughing. "I've been married 25 years and, in my eyes, my wife is the most beautiful woman in the world." ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter contributed to this story. http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/stor...-new-beginning

01-09-2013, 10:23 AM	#2
McGinley We Know Geno All Pro Join Date: Nov 2011 Posts: 7,411	Until he backs up what he says with action, these are just words. Don't judge a man by what he says, but by what he does.

01-09-2013, 10:25 AM	#3
RMJK Think outside the box. Jets Insider VIP Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Warwick, New York Posts: 15,781	Everyone learns from mistakes; hopefully Rex understand where the team fell apart and has the motivation and clarity to make the right changes. He can start with getting a franchise QB.

01-09-2013, 10:36 AM	#5
Beerfish Hall Of Fame Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,064	I have been encouraged by a few things. He finally admits he has made mistakes and will learn from them. He has realized that ground and pound by itself is simply not a concept that will win. He had the guts to fire Sparano and in essence admit he totally blew it on that hire. He did not come out and endorse Sanchez as his guy. All of these things are positives.

01-09-2013, 10:37 AM	#6
rextilleon Is Itzdik the Man? All League Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 4,648	After hearing him yesterday---I am now convinced that Rex Ryan is not the brightest bulb in the chandelier.

01-09-2013, 10:43 AM	#9
Fishooked dealin' out shithands Hall Of Fame Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: teh interwebz Posts: 24,660	2009 yesterday same tie?

01-09-2013, 10:50 AM	#14
BamaJets Veteran Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 1,777	Remember in 2009 and 2010 when Rex could do no wrong? Talking big, but they were playing big. Last season he talked big, but they didn't play as big. This season talking was down and so was the play. And what does much of the fan base do in response? Turn their backs on the team. And now he is trying to get back into everyone's good graces by doing so many things that the fans asked for (firings/benchings/soon-to-be cuttings), yet many of you still don't want to hear it. "Get rid of him," you say. No chance to redeem yourself! jeez, hope you treat your peers differently.

01-09-2013, 11:18 AM	#16
jetsfan920 Lets Get It Veteran Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 1,606	Actions speak louder than words.

01-09-2013, 08:20 PM	#20
ARodFLKeysJetsFan Jets GM John Idzik is handling business.... Hall Of Fame Charter JI Member Join Date: May 1999 Location: Currently Norfolk, VA.... Posts: 18,325	I think Rex is growing as a HC, yes he's made mistakes, but I for one am glad he is our HC.