OSU defensive coordinator may be headed to NFL

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma State defensive coordinator Rob Ryan may be returning to the National Football League. Newspaper and broadcast reports in Oklahoma City say Ryan is close to accepting a

Friday, February 18th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma State defensive coordinator Rob Ryan may be returning to the National Football League. Newspaper and broadcast reports in Oklahoma City say Ryan is close to accepting a job with the New England Patriots.

The Patriots, with new coach Bill Belichick putting together his staff, have openings for linebackers and defensive backs coaches, as well as coordinator. Ryan has been on the Oklahoma State staff the past three years. The Cowboys finished among the nation's top 20 in total defense, rushing defense scoring defense and turnover margin in 1997, helping OSU finish 8-4.

The Cowboys gave up big plays in the passing game the following year and finished 4-6. The defense slipped again last year, giving up 25 points per game and 34 or more points four times in another 4-6 finish.

Ryan and his twin brother, Rex, coached under their father, Buddy, on the Arizona Cardinals staff in 1994 and '95. Rex Ryan is now defensive line coach with the Baltimore Ravens.