Jets Appoint Former Lions Assistant as New Passing Game Coordinator

In a strategic move that intertwines family legacy with professional aspirations, the New York Jets announced the hiring of Seth Ryan as their new passing game coordinator. Previously an assistant tight ends coach for the Detroit Lions, Ryan is not just a rising star but also a product of a storied coaching lineage; his father Rex and grandfather Buddy both held significant roles within the Jets organization. This appointment by Jets head coach Aaron Glenn is not merely an organizational shift but a calculated response to address the team’s offensive shortcomings from last season.

Setting the Stage: The Departure from Detroit

Seth Ryan’s transition from the Lions to the Jets marks a significant career development after five seasons in Detroit. His time with the Lions was marked by a diverse array of roles, first assisting the receivers and later moving to tight ends, where he worked under Tyler Roehl. Despite notable accomplishments, including aiding the development of key players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, Ryan often found himself stalled in his quest for further advancement. In an interview, he expressed disappointment over being overlooked for promotions but recognized the potential benefits of his move into the tight ends room. “I trust the man completely. He knows exactly how to help his staff, how to help the team,” Ryan stated, highlighting his commitment to growth.

Motivations Behind the Move

The Jets’ decision to bring in Ryan reflects a tactical hedge against the team’s previous offensive inconsistencies. In 2025, the Jets faced a chaotic quarterback situation, with three starters and an offense that struggled to find its rhythm. With the prior offensive coordinator, Tanner Engstrand, not retained, Ryan’s hiring signals a new direction as head coach Aaron Glenn aims to stabilize the offensive structure. By aligning with Frank Reich, the newly appointed offensive coordinator with extensive NFL experience, the Jets are creating a framework intended to leverage Ryan’s knowledge and skill set to enhance their passing game.

Impact on the Broader NFL Landscape

This personnel shift extends beyond just the Jets and Lions. It resonates with a broader trend in the NFL where the interconnections among coaching staff across franchises play a crucial role in shaping team strategies. The Jets’ choice underscores a growing reliance on familiar relationships and existing trust levels within coaching networks, particularly in light of previous seasons’ struggles.

The “Ryans” legacy within the Jets adds not only family-centric ties but also a storyline that engages a fanbase that values tradition while also seeking future success. This narrative reinvigorates the Jets’ long-term planning, reflecting how personal connections weave into professional success.

Projected Outcomes: What to Watch For

• Quarterback Stability: Watch for how Ryan will influence the development of the Jets’ quarterback situation, particularly with potentially one star name on the roster.
• Receiver Development: The efficacy of Ryan’s techniques and strategies in nurturing the Jets’ receiving corps could significantly dictate the team’s offensive success.
• Coaching Dynamics: Observe the collaborative efforts between Ryan and Frank Reich, whose experience may lead to innovative schemes that could rejuvenate the Jets’ offense.

The appointment of Seth Ryan as the New York Jets’ passing game coordinator is not just a hallmark of personal growth; it embodies a strategic pivot aimed at elevating a stagnant offense. As all eyes turn to the Jets in the coming weeks, the intersection of historical legacy and modern tactical reshaping holds promise for both Ryan and the franchise’s ambitions on the field.