Buddy Ryan, Legendary Eagles Head Coach and NFL Icon, Dies at Age 82

Former Eagles head coach and NFL defensive guru Buddy Ryan has died at the age of 82, Ryan's agent James Solano confirmed to CSNPhilly.com. 

ESPN first reported on Tuesday morning that the football world had lost an icon. 

Ryan was known as much for his loud persona as his stellar defensive mind. While he never won a playoff game in Philadelphia, he forever became a favorite among Eagles fans, in large part for his brash personality and willingness to pummel opponents. 

Ryan coached the Eagles from 1986 to 1990. During his five seasons in Philadelphia, he went 43-35-1 and 0-3 in the playoffs. 

Ryan's arrival marked a football resurgence of sorts in the city. When he led the Eagles to the playoffs and the 1988 NFC East title, it was the franchise's first playoff appearance since 1981. 

Before becoming the Eagles' head coach, Ryan, the innovator of the 46 defense, led what is perhaps the best defense to ever take the field. His 1985 Bears unit led the team to a win in Super Bowl XX. 

Ryan's NFL coaching career began in Buffalo in 1961. He also coached the Jets and Vikings before becoming the Bears' defensive coordinator in 1978. 

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After being fired by the Eagles, he was the Oilers' defensive coordinator in 1993 and the Cardinals' head coach from 1994-95.

His sons Rex and Rob have also become NFL coaches. Rex is currently the head coach of the Bills and his brother Rob is an assistant on his staff. 

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