Buffalo Bills

Rex Ryan taking family criticism personally: 'I think it's hilarious'

Published Jan. 22, 2016 9:33 a.m. ET

Cameron DaSilva

Ever since Rex Ryan arrived in Buffalo as the head coach of the Bills, he's found himself in the spotlight. He was a part of trading Kiko Alonso for LeSean McCoy, which clearly worked out well for the Bills. He brought in the controversial Richie Incognito -- another successful addition.

During the season, he was criticized by Bills players for his defensive scheme after the unit fell from being the No. 4 group in 2014. Now, it's his coaching staff that's grabbing headlines.

He hired his brother, Rob, as an assistant head coach. He brought in Ed Reed as an assistant defensive backs coach, followed by the hiring of Kathryn Smith -- the first full-time female coach in the NFL.

All three moves have received plenty of attention, but they've also been criticized as well -- particularly the hiring of his brother. Ryan hasn't taken the heat lightly, either.

Via Mike Rodak of ESPN:

"I can tell you this: our family is taking is personal," Ryan said. "I think it's hilarious. I look at it, I just say, 'Look at the background and see what happens.' Someone's gonna be right and I know who that somebody is."

Ryan's coaching staff will certainly be a fascinating bunch this season, and it will be interesting to see how it works out. One thing's for sure: There will be no shortage of big names on the sidelines in Buffalo this season.

The defense should improve with two Ryans now in town, in addition to the always-smart Reed. The Bills can't afford to have another down season on defense if Ryan wants to avoid further criticism. Personnel changes are certain to happen on that side of the ball, led by the question mark of Mario Williams and his massive contract.