Jets coach Rex Ryan was introduced to the New York media on Wednesday (video), and afterward told NFL Network (video) that his first priority will be assembling his coaching staff. Perhaps the key position of the staff is offensive coordinator, the position held by Brian Schottenheimer since 2006.

While Schottenheimer was reportedly a serious contender before he was passed over for the head-coaching job, NFL Network’s Adam Schefter reports Ryan will try to retain Schottenheimer.

Ryan did confirm that he will speak with Schottenheimer “in the next few days.” When asked if he intended to retain Schottenheimer, Ryan made it sound as though the ball is in Schottenheimer’s court.

“I think Brian is an outstanding coach,” Ryan said. “He’s here already. I would be doing myself a disservice by not talking to him and seeing if he wants to stay a part of this Jets family. He’s already here. He’s one of the top coordinators in football. Of course, I’d give him that opportunity to say no or yes.”

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