Jets coach Rex Ryan said today that he’s sorry for telling a Patriots fan to “shut the f--k up” and won’t appeal the $75,000 fine NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell handed down.
“I know the Commissioner has a tough enough job,” Ryan said, in comments distributed by the Jets. “I’m an NFL lifer and I know I represent the NFL and I represent the Jets, so I’m accountable for my actions. So I will not appeal it.”
Ryan said it doesn’t matter whether he agrees with Goodell’s decision or not. He just knows the decision was made and he’s going to have to live with it.
“His decision is that I should be fined $75,000,” Ryan said. “That’s the way it is. I just want to get it behind me. Obviously, it was a mistake that I made and I’m responsible for my actions. I haven’t denied that one bit or slouched on that responsibility. I understand it, and I know to coach in the National Football League is an honor. I don’t want to be the guy to put a black eye on this or whatever. I just want to get it behind me and move forward.”
Ryan said he talked to Goodell, apologized, and admitted he made a mistake. From now on, I presume Ryan will save his F bombs for his players, and not for opposing fans.