Rex Ryan couldn't get the Buffalo Bills to the playoffs in his first year. His job could be in jeopardy if he fails for a second time.
The Buffalo News' Vic Carucci reported Tuesday, citing a team source, that during Terry Pegula's 2015 post-mortem meeting with Ryan and general manager Doug Whaley, the owner gave the duo an ultimatum: "Make the necessary fixes to get the team into the playoffs in the 2016 season or be fired."
Ryan has four years remaining on his contract. Whaley has one left.
The Bills have not made the playoffs in 16 seasons, the longest drought in American professional sports.
Last week, with rumors circulating about the general manager's future, Pegula issued a vote of confidence for both the coach and front office. In the note, Pegula said "our expectations weren't met," but that he believed the organization could garner "long-term success" under Ryan and Whaley.
The tandem has one year to display that long-term success is possible.
Usually it's Ryan bombastically providing the playoff guarantee in the offseason. This year it appears he won't have to. With his and Whaley's jobs at stake, the playoffs are a must.
