9 Reasons Why The Saints Hired Rob Ryan As Defensive Coordinator

The New Orleans Saints have hired former Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan to replace the recently fired Steve Spagnuolo. After initial reports that the Saints hired Ryan circulated a few days ago, the team made the official announcement this morning.

A recently reinstated Sean Payton interviewed Ryan for the position yesterday (Feb 8.) and upon hiring the brother of Jets head coach Rex Ryan/son of legendary NFL coach Buddy Ryan the Saints head coach shared an official statement.

we have experience in preparing and playing against his defenses and they've always been challenging in terms of the different looks and pressures that they feature. We've had the chance to visit with each other and talk about our visions for our team and I'm excited about moving forward as we prepare for the 2013 season.

Ryan has been a defensive coordinator for three teams over the last decade, including Oakland, Cleveland, and most recently Dallas. In a shocking move, he was fired by the Cowboys in early January after the team failed to make the playoffs. The public comment that was most publicized after Ryan got the boot was that he would find another job in "five minutes."

It took a little longer than five minutes, but Rob Ryan is officially a Saint. Now personally, I'm gonna hold my excitement until I see results on the field - but, I will say that I'm excited to have Ryan's passion on our Black & Gold sideline.

In case you aren't aware of his sideline antics, allow me to present 9 GREAT reasons (in slightly NSFW GIF form, of course) why you should be looking forward to seeing Rob Ryan as the New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator.