Buddy Ryan, the longtime NFL coach and architect of the 1985 Bears defense, has died at the age of 82, his agent confirmed Tuesday morning.
Ryan was the father of Bills coach Rex Ryan and Bills assistant Rob Ryan.
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Ryan designed the Bears’ feared 46 defense of the 1980s, considered the best of all time and the standard by which all other defenses are measured. During his 35-year coaching career, Ryan also served as the defensive coordinator for the Eagles and Houston Oilers, and the head coach of the Eagles and Cardinals.