Rex Ryan To Inteview With Falcons Next Week, Per Report

There were several reports about the Falcons' interest in Rex Ryan, and whether those were accurate or simply lucky, the interest is definitely there.

Former Jets HC Rex Ryan will interview with the Falcons next week, as @MMehtaNYDN reported.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2014

Ryan's the most experienced head coach in the batch of candidates we've heard about, having compiled a 46-50 record in six seasons with the Jets. He went 4-2 in the playoffs while there despite trotting out Mark Sanchez at quarterback, and before that he built a reputation as a formidable defensive mind as the defensive coordinator for the Ravens from 2005-2008.

It's that reputation that likely interests the Falcons, who have put one of the league's worst defenses on the field two seasons in a row. They're likely less interested in his reputation as a loudmouth, but winning would obviously trump that.

Figuring out what Ryan could accomplish in Atlanta is a whole different ball of wax. In New York he consistently had good-to-great defenses and subpar offenses, with the latter largely owing to inferior personnel. Those agitating for Ryan maintain he just needs an effective coordinator, and that with Matt Ryan at the helm in Atlanta, his offense would be much better. Granting that the talent was an issue, his previous hires at offensive coordinator in New York are a little worrisome, with neither Brian Schottenheimer or Marty Mornhingweg doing a whole lot there. There's little question in my mind the defense would be better under his watch, though the Falcons are several pieces away from resembling the Jets defense, even for those squinting furiously.

Ultimately, Ryan's probably not my preferred candidate for the job, but he's easily the most experienced guy on the list we've seen thus far, and that may mean something for an owner and front office that will want to win as soon as possible.

What's your opinion of Rex Ryan?