The Washington Commanders fired head coach Ron Rivera, the team announced Monday.
Rivera’s Commanders finished with a 4-13 record in 2023. Washington never had a winning season in four years under the veteran, though the team made the playoffs in 2020 with a 7-9 record. Rivera exits with an overall mark of 26-40-1.
“I want to thank Ron and his wife Stephanie for all they did for the Commanders and DMV community, especially during the ownership transition,” Commanders owner Josh Harris said in a statement. “Ron helped navigate this organization through some challenging times. He is a good man and thoughtful leader who has positively contributed to this organization and the NFL. I wish the Rivera family nothing but the best moving forward.”
The Commanders hired the 62-year-old in the hope he would bring much-needed stability to the franchise. Rivera established his reputation during a strong nine-year stint with the Carolina Panthers, which included a Super Bowl appearance and two Coach of the Year awards.
However, the NFC East club has stagnated under Rivera’s watch while dealing with significant off-field drama, most notably former owner Dan Snyder’s departure.
With Rivera gone, Harris has sought the help of former Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers and ex-Minnesota Vikings GM Rick Spielman to assist in the overhaul of the Commanders’ football operations. NBA legend and minority owner Magic Johnson will also be part of Harris’ advisory committee.
Myers helped build four championship-winning teams with the Warriors, while Spielman boasts 30 years of experience as an NFL executive. Neither man has been given a permanent role with Washington, a source told The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.
Harris said the club “must establish a strong organizational infrastructure” ahead of a “crucial offseason.”
The Commanders own the No. 2 pick in the 2024 draft and are projected to have the most cap space in the league next season.
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