Rex Ryan is about to get hit with a dose of reality — TV, that is.
The former Jets coach and current ESPN analyst is among the contestants on season 34 of CBS’ “Amazing Race” this fall.
Ryan, 59, is partnered with his golf buddy Tim Mann, a 41-year-old probation officer from Brentwood, Tenn. to make up “Team T-Rex.” They’ll make up one of 12 pairs — including long lost twins, former NFL cheerleaders, ballroom dancers, motivational speakers, according to Entertainment Weekly— competing in a race around the world with a $1 million prize.
“Where our story kinda started was, his love for the Buffalo Bills,” Ryan said in a promo video with Mann. “And the fact that I failed miserably as the coach of the Buffalo Bills.”
Mann cited Ryan’s support as Mann’s mother battled ALS, saying he’s become “like a brother.”
Ryan went 61-66 over eight seasons as coach of the Jets and Bills, leading the Jets to the AFC Championship game in 2009 and 2010 — the franchise’s last playoff appearances.
Rex Ryan led the Jets to their two most recent playoff appearances. JASON SZENES/NY POST
Tim Mann and Rex Ryan in promo material for ‘The Amazing Race.’ CBS“I do know a little bit about team building,” Ryan said. “If you want to be really good, you lean on yourself. If you want to be great, you lean on yourself and others.
The famously quotable ex-coach has since become a studio staple for ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown,” and believes he’ll be just as attractive as a reality show star.
“A lot of people will love us just because we are kind of the underdogs here,” he said. “Why not us? We got a 1-in-12 chance, might as well go for it.”
The season premiere of “The Amazing Race” airs on Sept. 21.
