Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan’s name hasn’t been mentioned that much in any of the head coaching vacancy discussions, but a recent report by ESPN’s Chris Mortensen says it may have nothing to do with his qualifications.
H/T: Larry Brown Sports
ESPN’s Chris Mortensen said on “NFL Insiders” Monday that a lot of people were “truly impressed” with the coaching job Ryan did as the defensive coordinator of the New Orleans Saints this season
So why isn’t Ryan receiving more consideration for head coaching jobs the way other coordinators are? Mort says NFL executives told him they feel Ryan needs to cut his hair to present a more professional look.
“If he wants to be a head coach, he has to cut his hair,” executives have told Mort. “It is about image for these guys. They want a CEO-type. That’s what they want.”
It’s surprisingly unfortunate that Ryan is missing out on opportunities simply because he rocks long hair (which I like by the way). I actually think he’ll make a good head coach and what he has been able to in New Orleans this year ( defense that allowed the second-most points in the league and most yards in the league last season to ranking fourth in both) proves it.
It’s sad we’re still in a day in age when hair, whether it’s long, locs, fro, etc., is more important than your qualifications.