:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45134064/usa-today-8284913.0.jpg)
Bills head coach Doug Marrone opted out of his contract yesterday. ESPN's Adam Schefter and Rich Cimini say the Jets are going to be interested.
The Jets, searching for Rex Ryan's replacement, have interest in the Bronx native, according to sources. And the feeling is mutual. Marrone is a coaching free agent, meaning he has the ability to go wherever he wants. The Jets are expected to schedule an interview with Marrone.
New York Jets become favorites to land former Bills HC Doug Marrone, who is from the Bronx.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2014
Marrone did just win 9 games in Buffalo this season, but there are plenty of reasons to be leery. There don't seem to be many Bills fans disappointed by his departure. Marrone makes some suspect in game decisions. More disturbing, his hand-picked quarterback, E.J. Manuel has shown even less promise than Geno Smith in two seasons. In addition, Marrone has a background as an offensive line coach, but that unit was not very good in Buffalo.
Of note, his offensive coordinator in Buffalo Nathaniel Hackett is the son of former Jets offensive coordinator Paul Hackett.
On the plus side, Marrone has made some very strong assistant hires on the defensive side of the ball, and that unit helped carry Buffalo to a winning record this season.
Marrone was the Jets' offensive line coach under Herman Edwards from 2002 to 2005.