Jets name ex-Cardinals defensive coordinator new head coach

The New York Jets officially announced the hiring of Todd Bowles as their new head coach on Wednesday.

“I am proud to welcome Todd Bowles as the head coach of the New York Jets,” Jets chairman and CEO Woody Johnson said. “From entering the league as an undrafted free agent in Washington to becoming a very successful coordinator in Arizona, Todd has earned everything he has achieved.

“He is a hard-working and dedicated leader who has garnered the respect of players and coaches. I am confident that Todd and (new general manager) Mike Maccagnan are the right combination to lead this team.”

Bowles, the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive coordinator, replaces Rex Ryan. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Bowles is receiving a four-year contract.

Bowles, 51, spent two years guiding the Arizona defense. Before that, he was the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive coordinator in 2012. He had a stint as the Miami Dolphins’ interim coach in 2011, winning two of three games after stepping up from his duties as secondary coach.

“It’s an honor and privilege to coach the Jets,” Bowles said. “I want to thank Mr. Johnson and Mike Maccagnan for this opportunity. I can’t help but be humbled by the chance to coach this team. I am going to do everything I can to build a consistent winner.”

Previously, Bowles worked on the coaching staffs of the Jets (defensive backs coach in 2000), Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys.

A safety in the NFL from 1986 to 1993, Bowles played for the Washington Redskins and the San Francisco 49ers after being undrafted out of Temple.

“Todd is a natural leader and excellent communicator with a great work ethic, who has demonstrated a consistent ability to win by utilizing all of his players,” Maccagnan said. “Todd’s eight years in the NFL after not being drafted speaks to his determination, adaptability and resilience and he has first-hand knowledge of how all players can contribute.

“When we first met, it was immediately clear how sincere and very real he is. While he appreciates the need for discipline, players love playing for him and I believe he has outstanding qualities to help make the Jets a competitive, winning team.”

According to ESPN.com, Bowles was seeking Dolphins defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers to be his defensive coordinator. The 45-year-old Rodgers has worked for the Dolphins since 2008 but before that was a member of the Cowboys’ coaching staff along with Bowles.

Other media reports identified well-traveled Chan Gailey as Bowles’ top choice for offensive coordinator.