Rex Ryan a big hit
Published: 2/27/2010 11:32 AM
Last Modified: 2/27/2010 11:32 AM
INDIANAPOLIS — Jets coach Rex Ryan, a fan favorite in New York, was also a hit in the interview room Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Sons of Frederick native Buddy Ryan, Rex and twin brother Rob (defensive coordinator at Cleveland) grew up in Chicago and attended college at Southwestern State in Weatherford. Rob coached at OSU, Rex at OU.
That homespun background and easy going, self-deprecating personality has endeared them to players, fans and media, and Rex Ryan's turn at the podium was, as one observer described it, "a hoot."
A sample:
On the combine's value:
"I like the drills. You see an offensive lineman running the 40 and you're like, 'Whew! He made it!"
On his ample physical profile suddenly appearing everywhere after leading the Jets to the playoffs in his rookie season as a head coach:
"I'm watching ESPN and I'm like, 'Whoa, that's not a good shot.' I mean, don't get me wrong. I get hit on by women all the time. . . . No, it's not gonna change. I'm still gonna take the train into the city, I'm still gonna go to sporting events. . . . I'm still gonna be true to myself. I'm gonna be who I am."
On his reputation as a player's coach:
"For whatever reason, guys want to play for me, and that's a good thing."
— John E. Hoover
Written by
John E. Hoover
Sports Columnist
