New Rams general manager Billy Devaney will lead his team’s head coaching search, just like he did last season in Atlanta.

In Atlanta, Devaney gained tremendous respect for Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, each of whom was a finalist for the Falcons’ head coaching job that went to Mike Smith.

Many around the league believe that Ryan is a favorite to land the Rams’ head coaching job. Ryan is the type of coach that could help turn around this franchise, and he would not command the type of salary that a Bill Cowher or a higher-profile head coach would. The Rams also are expected to talk with interim head coach Jim Haslett, who has the support of many of the Rams players, which should count for something.

If the teams looks to hire an offensive coach, it could turn in the direction of former New York Giants coach Jim Fassel, who was a finalist for the Washington Redskins’ head-coaching job last season and could be in the mix in Oakland this season.

But the feeling around the league is that Ryan is the favorite.