Meet The 2009 New York Jets Coaching Staff

Head Coach Rex Ryan: Ryan served the past four years as the Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator. He was considered for the open position of head coach before the 2008 season, a job which was given to Jim Harbaugh. Ryan now has a head coaching job of his own with the Jets.

Ryan will be crucial to changing the culture in the Jets locker room. Former coach Eric Mangini was quiet and passive at times, but Ryan's fiery demeanor should be in stark contrast to Mangini's. Ryan also has NFL bloodlines, as his father is former NFL head coach Buddy Ryan.

The Jets floundered down the stretch last season, costing Mangini his job. While their collapse wasn't entirely his fault, a repeat seems unlikely with Ryan at the helm. He will look to be aggressive on both sides of the ball and has the talent to do so.

Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer: Schottenheimer enters his fourth season as the Jets offensive coordinator. Schottenheimer was instrumental in the development of Drew Brees as the San Diego Chargers quarterbacks coach from 2002-05.

Like Ryan, Schottenheimer has NFL bloodlines, being the son of former NFL head coach Marty Schotteneheimer. Schottenheimer was also in the running for the Jets head coaching vacancy after last season but lost out to Ryan. Ryan saw enough in his performance last season to retain him as coordinator.

Schottenheimer's offense is predicated on flexibility and multiple offensive sets. The Jets personnel fits well in his scheme, which is designed the utilize the unique talents of players like Leon Washington, Brad Smith and Dustin Keller.

Defensive Coordinator Mike Pettine: Pettine came over with Ryan from the Ravens and was the first assistant hired by the new head coach. Ryan has described Pettine as a rising star in the coaching world.

Pettine spent the last four season as the Ravens outside linebackers coach, developing players like Terrell Suggs and Adalius Thomas. Considering their familiarity with each other, he should be on the same page as Ryan from day one.

Pettine is a computer expert and has used this talent to develop computer programs to help defensive coaches scouts opponents and analyze game film. He should transition seamlessly into his new role.

Special Teams Coach Mike Westhoff: Westhoff enters his ninth season in this role with the Jets. His longevity is a testament to the performance of his special teams units year in and year out.

The Jets lead the NFL with 11 kickoff returns for touchdown since 2001, Westhoff's first season with the team. They have also consistently been near the top of the league in covering punts and kickoffs.

Other Coaches of Note:

Wide Receivers Coach Henry Ellard: Ellard is in his first season with the Jets after spending six years in the same position with the St. Louis Rams.

Without Laveranues Coles, Ellard will have to aid in the development of Chansi Stuckey, David Clowney and Brad Smith to complement top receiver Jerricho Cotchery. The trio has combined for just 86 career catches, just 16 more than Coles registered last season.

Tight Ends Coach Mike Devlin: In his fourth season with the Jets, Devlin also serves as the assistant offensive line coach.

His direction will go a long way in the development of second-year tight end Dustin Keller, who caught 35 balls in the final eight games of last season. With Coles' departure, Keller will be an important safety valve for whoever wins the quarterback battle, as well as the Jets biggest down-field threat.