Defensive innovator Buddy Ryan passes away

Defensive innovator Buddy Ryan has passed away, and leaves behind a huge legacy. He had a fun rivalry with Bill Walsh in the 80s, and has had some influence on current 49ers defensive coordinator Jim O’Neil.

Sad news for the NFL family. Former defensive coordinator and head coach Buddy Ryan has passed away. Ryan has a huge legacy in the league, having developed the 4-6 defense that helped guide the Chicago Bears to a Super Bowl. He brought an incredibly physical defense, and was never shy when it came to his philosophy.

The San Francisco 49ers had numerous rivals during the 80s, and for a stretch, Buddy Ryan would qualify as one. Bill Walsh was an offensive innovator, so there was a sort of…