Willie Colon: 'I love Rex Ryan'

New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan has received a glowing endorsement from guard Willie Colon as speculation over his future continues to build.

Sunday's 30-20 defeat to the Carolina Panthers ensured a third consecutive non-winning season for the Jets, who reached back-to-back AFC Championship games in Ryan's first two seasons as coach.

However, despite the side's deteriorating record since then, Colon believes that it would be a big step backwards for the Jets if they do not keep hold of Ryan for at least another season.

"I'll stand on a soap box and say, 'Rex is my coach'. He's one of the main reasons I came here. I love the guy to death. I love his passion, I love his heart. I think if he doesn't come back it would be a step back for us as a team," Colon told reporters.

Ryan has also talked up his own ability, claiming that there is "no doubt" that he is the right man to lead the Jets forward.