New York Jets Poach Lions Coach: Rex Ryan’s Son Seth Named Passing Game Coordinator

The New York Jets are making waves by hiring Seth Ryan—son of former Jets head coach Rex Ryan—as their new passing-game coordinator, poaching the rising assistant from the Detroit Lions’ staff. The move reunites the Ryan family with Gang Green and signals head coach Aaron Glenn’s intent to modernize an offense that ranked near the bottom of the league in explosive plays last season. Seth Ryan, 30, spent the past three years in Detroit, working first with wide receivers before shifting to the tight-ends room under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. During his Lions tenure, the offense finished top-five in both total yards and passing touchdowns, while tight end Sam LaPorta broke multiple rookie records—production that helped Ryan emerge as a coveted young coach league-wide. Why the Jets targeted Ryan • Strategic fit: Ryan’s background in Dan Campbell’s flexible 12-personnel packages meshes with New York’s recent draft investments at tight end and wide receiver. • Familiarity with staff: He worked alongside new Jets OC Tanner Engstrand in Detroit’s analytics-driven passing concepts, ensuring a smooth scheme installation. • Pedigree and player buy-in: Being Rex Ryan’s son gives Seth instant credibility in the locker room, yet coaches describe him as “a grinder who’s earned everything,” easing concerns of nepotism. What the hire means for Zach Wilson—or his successor The Jets remain non-committal about their 2026 starting quarterback, but insiders say Ryan will spearhead a vertical-stretch system heavy on play-action and pre-snap motion. That philosophy could maximize Wilson’s arm talent or accelerate a rookie’s development if New York drafts a passer in April. Impact on the Lions Detroit quickly promoted assistant OL coach Steve Oliver to tight-ends coach, maintaining continuity while Ben Johnson interviews to become an NFL head coach. The Lions will receive a 2027 compensatory draft pick through the league’s minority-coach advancement program, softening the blow of losing Ryan. Looking ahead Ryan is expected to join the Jets by early next week, dive into film study for free-agency targets, and attend the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. If his track record in Detroit translates, the Jets’ stagnant aerial attack could see a dramatic turnaround as soon as Week 1. Key SEO phrases: Seth Ryan passing game coordinator, New York Jets coaching hire, Rex Ryan son, Detroit Lions assistant coach departure, Jets offense 2026 outlook.