Chris Mortensen: Rob Ryan needs haircut for head coaching opportunities

Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan along the sidelines during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Rob Ryan did a wonderful job in his first season as the New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator turning around one of the worst units in NFL history to the No. 4 ranked total defense in 2013.

That type of turnaround normally prompt teams seeking a head coach to come Ryan’s way, but that hasn’t been the case and it could be as a result of his flowing locks.

ESPN’s NFL insider, Chris Mortensen broached the topic on Monday’s NFL Insiders

"“If he wants to be a head coach, he has to cut his hair,” executives have told Chris Mortensen. “It is about image for these guys. They want a CEO-type. That’s what they want.”"

Ryan’s twin brother Rex has been the head coach of the New York Jets and underwent weight loss surgery to drop more than 100 pounds and has short hair and is clean-shaven. A stark contrast to his larger twin brother who sports a goatee in addition to his luscious locks.

Outside of the NFL arena personal appearance is a major part of whether a person is hired or not, so is this out of bounds for an NFL team to make Ryan cut his locks and be more presentable in order to get head coaching opportunities?

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