Rex Ryan joining ESPN coverage for Super Bowl LI
Rex Ryan is taking the first step in a possible transition to the television side of the football world.
The now-former Buffalo Bills head coach has signed a deal to appear on ESPN's "NFL Sunday Countdown" leading up to the Super Bowl LI, the network announced Monday.
"Rex is a great personality and has a unique perspective," Seth Markman, ESPN's senior coordinating producer, told John Ourand of Sports Business Daily.com. "He knows the Patriots really well. He's raring to go."
The deal is only for the big game but, given that Ryan is still yet to land another coaching job following his dismissal in Buffalo, this could certainly end up leading to a full-time gig for next season.
Ryan received interest from ESPN, CBS, FOX, and NFL Network almost immediately after he became available, according to to Ourand.
Long considered to be a perfect fit for TV, it would be no surprise to see the veteran coach sign on with one of the four major football networks before the fall. ESPN can likely be considered a favorite for Ryan's services after locking him down for Super Bowl coverage.