The Buffalo Bills have become the first team to hire a new head coach. Rex Ryan formerly of the New York Jets will join the Bills to coach a team that went 9-7 a year ago.
After Doug Marrone opted out of his contract the Bills became the last team to enter the market for a new head coach yet somehow were the first to land a new head man.
Some believe that Ryan would have been better going to Atlanta – the Falcons already have a top of the line offense – but a second interview with the Falcons never came about. With Scott Pioli and Thomas Dimitroff already in place the Falcons seem to be targeting New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
The 52-year-old Ryan coached the Jets for six seasons going 46-50. He led th Jets to the AFC Championship in each of his first two seasons before a lack of talent on offense became evident finishing at just 4-12 this season with Geno Smith and Michael Vick sharing time at quarterback.
Ryan had his second interview with the Bills on Saturday night and quickly landed a five-year deal worth $27.5 million.
With Ryan now in place as the coach he will quickly work to fill out his staff. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is expected to remain with the Bills while San Francisco offensive coordinator Greg Roman could be brought in to run the offense.
The Bills are still in need of a quarterback with E.J. Maniel currently at the top of their depth chart. Ryan needs a signal caller but with the Bills first pick not coming until midway though the second round the best option may be a veteran retread.
