Buffalo Bills Hire Rex Ryan

By Cheri Cheng - 12 Jan '15 14:47PM

Rex Ryan will stay in New York.

The Buffalo Bills announced that they have hired Rex Ryan as their head coach. Ryan, who was just fired by the New York Jets, will become the Bill's 18th coach.

After a second interview, which took place on Saturday night, Ryan, 52, agreed to a five-year deal with a base salary worth $5.5 million per year. The new coach will be introduced on Wednesday,

"Following an extensive search, we are pleased today to announce that Rex Ryan is our new head coach," Bills owner Terry Pegula said in a statement. "Rex brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the position that we feel will be a tremendous benefit to our players and the entire Bills organization."

Pegula added, "He was very impressive during the interview process, as were many of the candidates to which we spoke, and we feel Rex is the best fit for our team. We look forward to his leadership and expertise in directing our team to the playoffs and bringing a championship to Buffalo for our fans."

The Bills had interviewed a total of 12 coaching candidates since Doug Marrone opted out of his contract in December. The Bills are also expected to bring in 49ers offensive coordinator, Greg Roman. Roman has worked with Ryan in the past when they were a part of the Ravens' coaching staff. Sources added that the Bills plan on keeping Jim Schwartz as their defensive coordinator.

Ryan has a 50-52 record, which includes a 4-2 playoff record with the Jets. With the addition of Ryan, the Bills' defense can expect to improve even more. The Bills' defense finished 2014 ranked fourth in the league in yards allowed. The team also led the league with 54 sacks.

Once again, Ryan will have to work with a team that does not have a strong quarterback. Bills veteran Kyle Orton retired after this season. Ryan will have to find a way to spark the offense next season.

The Bills finished 9-7, which is their best record since 2004. Despite a winning record, the Bills missed the playoffs for their 15th season, the longest active drought in the league.