Former NFL Coach Rex Ryan Arrested in Nashville After Alleged Hit-and-Run

Former head coach of the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills, Rex Ryan, was taken into custody on Wednesday. Police allege he struck two pedestrians with his pickup truck in downtown Nashville and then left the scene following a confrontation.

Ryan, age 63, turned himself in to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department facing six misdemeanor charges linked to an incident on November 5 on Broadway, a prominent downtown street. He was released on a $6,000 bond pending trial.

Authorities reported that the pedestrians were struck by a pickup truck while they held a walk signal. The vehicle, turning right from 4th Avenue, ran over their feet and hit one individual’s leg. When the truck did not stop, the pedestrians approached the driver at a nearby traffic light. Ryan allegedly exited the vehicle, argued with them, and then left without providing any information. The pedestrians had taken photos of the license plate, which led police to Ryan.

The altercation occurred just before midnight, and the confrontation took place at Broadway and Rep. John Lewis Way. Both individuals reported minor injuries from the incident.

Court records indicate that Ryan faces two counts each of leaving the scene of an accident, failing to give information or render aid, and failing to obey a traffic signal. Ryan is scheduled to appear in court next month, but court documents do not list an attorney for him.

Ryan has not issued a public statement regarding the charges. ESPN, where Ryan has served as an NFL analyst since 2017, said they are aware of the situation and have been in contact with him. The network has not disclosed any potential impact on his role.

A resident of the Nashville area for over ten years, Ryan gained national recognition as a coach when the Jets appointed him in 2009. Previously a defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, he led the Jets to the AFC Championship Game in his first two seasons. The team lost to the Indianapolis Colts after the 2009 season and to the Pittsburgh Steelers the following year. The Jets have not reached the playoffs since.

During his six-year tenure with the Jets, Ryan achieved a regular-season record of 46-50, ending with a 4-12 season in 2014, leading to his dismissal. He was quickly hired by Buffalo, where his record was 15-16 before being released before the end of the 2016 season. His postseason record stands at 4-2, and he has not coached in the NFL since.