Bills ready to fire Rex Ryan after season

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With the Buffalo Bills looking like one of the league’s biggest disappointments this year, it isn’t a surprise to hear reports the team will move on from coach Rex Ryan this offseason.

The Bills, 6-7, sit third in the AFC East and have a quarterback issue with Tyrod Taylor. Don’t forget Ryan’s defense—his selling point as a coach—hasn’t performed up to expectations.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted the plans Friday:

While Ryan’s job is in trouble, Bills sources say general manager Doug Whaley is safe, which means he will have a hand in hiring his third head coach. It also means the end of this season is shaping up as a fitting end to Ryan’s time in Buffalo.

Schefter doubled down on these reports Sunday:

Ryan is aware of what’s ahead, sources said, which creates an awkward situation surrounding the Bills until the change is made.

While Buffalo is preparing to part ways with Ryan, the organization is expected to retain general manager Doug Whaley, who is expected to be given a chance to hire his third different head coach, after having a hand in the hirings of Ryan and former Bills head coach Doug Marrone.

The blame for the miserable season has to fall somewhere, with Ryan the best candidate. He doesn’t have his team playing well despite obvious talent and some fresh blood at coach might do the trick.

From the sounds of it, Buffalo doesn’t want a full-blown rebuild if some names in the front office are safe. But Ryan getting the boot speaks to the team’s desire for a culture change.

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