Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera sits in an odd spot, knowing significant changes are likely coming this offseason while simultaneously trying to get ready for a divisional tilt against Dallas in the regular-season finale.
Rivera assumed the role in D.C. in 2020, securing an NFC East title in his inaugural year, even though the team had a 7-9 record. The coach, over the course of four seasons, has maintained a 26-39-1 record. Additionally, he has been instrumental in helping the team navigate numerous off-field issues during this period.
Rivera was questioned about the improvements he perceives within the club since his takeover, ahead of what is broadly regarded as potentially his last game with the team.
He expressed on Tuesday, as per the official team transcript, “I’d like to believe we are in a better position. That’s probably the right way to put it. I truly value my time here and let’s see what the future holds. For now, our primary focus is preparing for the upcoming game against Dallas on Sunday.”
The 61-year-old highlighted his pride in how the club transformed its values during his four-season tenure.
“He asked me about what we’ve done with the culture,” he said. “In response, I told him that, while I appreciate where we are now, it’s not exactly where we aim to be. However, that’s just how this game goes sometimes. To me, that’s one of the most significant aspects.”
With new ownership expected to make big changes after taking over the club in late July, Rivera was under the microscope all season. Things started well with a 2-0 record out of the gate, but losing streaks followed, including their current seven-game skid ahead of the Cowboys game on Sunday.
Rivera was questioned regarding his memories of the 2023 team.
“Well, ‘grinding’ is indeed a suitable term to describe their performance in the past few weeks,” he said on Tuesday. “These guys have displayed tremendous tenacity, resilience, and determination, playing till the last whistle. As a coach, it’s gratifying to have players who are relentless and tough. They never shy away from any opponent. Of course, we had ambitions of achieving more than we currently have, but at the end of the day, all one can do is to continue showing up and putting in their best effort.”
Rivera, before Sunday’s game, has a regular-season head coaching record of 102-102-2, accumulated from just under nine seasons with Carolina and four years with Washington. His teams have a 3-5 postseason record, which includes a Super Bowl appearance in 2015 with the Panthers.
