The New York Jets haven’t seen the playoffs since 2010, a drought that feels like an eternity for fans. Now, a new name, carrying a familiar legacy, enters the fray hoping to spark a change. Can Seth Ryan, the son and grandson of NFL coaches, finally unlock the Jets’ passing game and bring them back to relevance?
Key Takeaways
- Seth Ryan, son of former Jets head coach Rex Ryan and grandson of legendary defensive coach Buddy Ryan, has been hired as the Jets’ passing-game coordinator, marking a rare three-generation connection with the franchise.
- Ryan’s hiring signals a potential shift in offensive philosophy, bringing experience from the Detroit Lions where he focused on wide receivers and tight ends.
- The move represents a homecoming for the Ryan family, who have deep roots with the Jets organization dating back to their Super Bowl III victory in 1969.
- Despite the family’s defensive background, Seth is known as an offensive-minded coach, offering a new perspective to the Jets’ struggling passing attack.
Can Seth Ryan Revitalize the Jets Passing Attack?
The Jets’ passing game has been a consistent sore spot for years, failing to deliver the explosive plays and consistent production needed to compete in the modern NFL. The team fired Scott Turner, who was the previous passing game coordinator, after failing to improve the passing attack. Bringing in Seth Ryan represents a bet on fresh ideas and a new approach. While the Ryan name is synonymous with hard-nosed defense, Seth’s experience with the Detroit Lions, a team known for its innovative offensive schemes, suggests a willingness to embrace modern offensive principles.
The Lions offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, ranked among the league leaders in passing yards and points scored in recent seasons. Working with Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and alongside receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Ryan has seen firsthand what a dynamic passing attack can achieve. “Seth brings a modern approach to the passing game,” said ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. “He understands route concepts, coverage schemes, and how to exploit mismatches. That experience in Detroit is invaluable.” Can he translate that knowledge to the Jets, who desperately need a spark in their aerial attack? The Jets have struggled in pass protection, ranking near the bottom in sacks allowed in 2025. Ryan’s success will hinge on the Jets addressing these issues and providing him with the tools to implement his vision.
Why This Hire Goes Beyond Football
The Ryan family’s history with the Jets adds another layer of intrigue to this hiring. Buddy Ryan’s role as the defensive line coach for the Super Bowl III-winning team cemented the family’s place in Jets lore. Rex Ryan’s tenure as head coach, though ultimately unsuccessful in bringing a Super Bowl back to New York, was marked by passion and a memorable personality that resonated with fans. Rex Ryan led the Jets to two AFC Championship games, but ultimately failed to lead the team to the Super Bowl.
For Seth Ryan, joining the Jets is more than just a job; it’s a chance to build upon his family’s legacy. The weight of expectations will be immense, but so will the potential reward of helping the Jets return to prominence. As Rex Ryan said on ESPN’s “Get Up,” “This is a dream come true for Seth. He’s a smart, hard-working coach who loves the game. I know he’ll give everything he has to help the Jets win.” The Jets are taking a calculated risk by betting on the Ryan name, but also hoping that Seth can add to the teams offensive output, which ranked near the bottom of the league in 2025.
Players/Teams Mentioned
- Seth Ryan – New York Jets Passing Game Coordinator
- Rex Ryan – Former New York Jets Head Coach (2009-2014), current ESPN analyst
- Buddy Ryan – Former New York Jets Defensive Line Coach (1968-1975), architect of the “46 defense”
- New York Jets – Have not made the playoffs since 2010, seeking to improve their passing offense
- Detroit Lions – Seth Ryan’s previous team, known for their offensive innovation
What This Means
- For Jets fans: This hire offers a glimmer of hope for a stagnant passing attack. Seth Ryan’s experience in Detroit suggests a commitment to modern offensive strategies.
- For fantasy football players: Keep an eye on the Jets’ wide receivers and tight ends. If Ryan can implement a more efficient passing game, their production could increase significantly.
- For the NFL: The Ryan family’s connection to the Jets creates a compelling narrative. This hire will be closely watched to see if Seth can succeed where his father could not.
- For the Jets organization: Hiring Seth Ryan is a gamble that could pay off handsomely if he can revitalize the passing game and help the team compete for a playoff spot.
- For Rex Ryan: Rex will be an invested observer, offering his guidance as he watches his son lead the Jets to the playoffs.
Source: www.espn.com
Disclosure: Trending Society provides sports analysis for entertainment purposes. Not betting or fantasy advice.
