Iconic Former Eagles coach Buddy Ryan Passes at 82
PHILADELPHIA (973espn.com) - Former Eagles coach Buddy Ryan passed away Tuesday morning at the age of 82.
The iconic Ryan coached Philadelphia for five seasons (1986-1990), compiling a 43-38-1 overall record and leading the team to three consecutive postseason appearances, including an NFC East title in 1988.
Seven different players earned a combined 15 All-Pro selections under Ryan’s guidance led by a historic defense featuring the legendary Reggie White, as well as players like Jerome Brown, Seth Joyner, Clyde Simmons and Eric Allen.
“Buddy Ryan was arguably one of the greatest defensive masterminds in NFL history and forever left his mark on the Eagles organization and the city of Philadelphia,” Eagles Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie said. “Over the last 20-plus years, I had the pleasure of discussing football with Buddy and I always came away from those conversations intrigued by his knowledge and passion for the game. On behalf of myself and the entire Eagles family, I’d like to offer our deepest condolences to the Ryan family.”
Ryan is survived by his three sons: Jim and twins Rex and Rob. Rex is currently the head coach of the Buffalo Bills and Rob is a long-time NFL defensive coordinator, who joined Rex in Western New York this season.
"Buddy Ryan was one of the most creative and innovative defensive minds in the game of football,” said Eagles Head Coach Doug Pederson. “It was easy to sense his passion for the game and how much his players loved playing for him. His defensive philosophy remains a big part of the game today. He is a legend in our sport. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rex, Rob, Jim and the entire Ryan family.”
-John McMullen covers the Eagles and the NFL for 973espn.com. You can reach him at jmcmullen44@gmail.com or on Twitter @JFMcMullen
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