The Washington Redskins continued their alteration of head coach Jay Gruden’s coaching staff, primarily on defense. The team announced Wednesday, the hiring of Rob Ryan as their inside linebackers coach.
Ryan replaces Kirk Olivadotti, who left the team to join the Green Bay Packers in the same position.
Ryan joins defensive coordinator Greg Manusky, defensive line coach Jim Tomusla, and defensive backs coach Ray Horton on the defense.
Ryan, the son of Buddy Ryan and twin brother of Rex Ryan, has an extensive coaching history much like his father and brother. He was last a linebacker coach with the New England Patriots from 2000-2003, winning two Super Bowls. He was a defensive coordinator for Oakland, Cleveland, Dallas and New Orleans.
His last coaching spot in the league was in 2016 with Buffalo as the assistant head coach under his brother Rex, who was the head coach. Both were fired at the conclusion of the season.
Ryan spent the past two seasons in broadcast. He joins a Redskins team that has talent and uncertainty at inside linebacker.
Last season, both inside linebackers Mason Foster and Zach Brown led the team in tackles with 131 and 96, respectively. Brown added 10 tackles for losses and a sack. Foster had two interceptions.
Brown battled through injuries as well, and saw his playing time decreased in favor of rookie Shaun Dion Hamilton, who collected 27 tackles and a forced fumble in four starts. Washington also added the talented but embattled Reuben Foster to the mix, claiming him off waivers in November after he was waived by San Francisco.
Brown could be a cap casualty, but the team has four strong options moving into the 2019 season at the moment. They possess a good deal of talent for Ryan to work with.
