Add Rex Ryan to the long list of people interviewing for the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons head coaching jobs.
The former New York Jets coach, who was fired Monday, reportedly has interviews with the two teams, per The New York Post. The Falcons fired Mike Smith Monday, too, and the Niners “mutually parted ways” with Jim Harbaugh, who took the head coaching job at Michigan.
Ryan no doubt wants another chance to lead a team to victory, but it looks as though he could still be employed even if he doesn’t land either the Atlanta or San Francisco gig. The New York Daily News reported that Ryan met with ESPN executives Tuesday to discuss a role with the network if he can’t find a head coaching job.
Both the Falcons and Niners positions seem to have some stiff competition, though. CSN Bay Area reported that 49ers defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn interviewed with San Francisco Tuesday. They also reportedly spoke to former Denver Broncos and Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan and have interest in his son, Kyle Shanahan, who’s the Cleveland Browns’ offensive coordinator.
New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels reportedly also will interview for both positions.
In six seasons with the Jets, Ryan went 50-52, including 4-2 in the playoffs. His firing came after New York finished dead last in the AFC East at 4-12.
Thumbnail photo via Brad Penner/USA TODAY Sports Images
