{"id":15613,"date":"2024-01-08T21:59:11","date_gmt":"2024-01-09T01:59:11","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/the-hogs.lovestoblog.com\/blogs\/?p=15613"},"modified":"2025-06-22T12:41:26","modified_gmt":"2025-06-22T16:41:26","slug":"ron-rivera-fired-washington-commanders-opt-for-change","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/the-hogs.net\/blogs\/2024\/01\/08\/ron-rivera-fired-washington-commanders-opt-for-change\/","title":{"rendered":"Ron Rivera Fired: Washington Commanders Opt For Change"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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Some say it was a foregone conclusion that we\u2019d see Ron Rivera fired. New ownership, a disappointing 4-13 season \u2013 the signs were all there. It happened today – January 8, 2024. The Washington Commanders announced that head coach Rivera’s four-year tenure, was over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite early hopes, the Commanders failed to achieve a winning season under Rivera\u2019s leadership. In fact, they finished with an anemic 26\u201340\u20131 record in those four seasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rivera’s time in Washington was marked by significant challenges. He navigated the team through an ownership change, multiple rebranding efforts, and off-field controversies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In his farewell statement, Rivera expressed gratitude to the fans and acknowledged the team\u2019s struggles. \u201cThrough all the name changes, roster moves, non-football headlines and seasons that did not meet your expectations, you still stood by this team, ” Rivera said. “We did win an NFC East title in 2020, but we fell short since then, and for that I am truly disappointed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Commanders owner Josh Harris<\/strong> commended Rivera\u2019s professionalism. \u201cRon helped navigate this organization through some challenging times,” said the new owner. “He is a good man and thoughtful leader who has positively contributed to this organization and the NFL.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ron Rivera Fired Despite Bright Spots<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, Rivera continued to coach while undergoing cancer treatment, demonstrating resilience and commitment. It inspired us all. He showed a lot of courage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Washington<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In 2023, Rivera was honored with the Salute to Service Award<\/strong><\/a>, the NFL\u2019s top military appreciation honor. Presented by USAA and the league, the award recognized Rivera\u2019s unwavering support of service members and veterans. As the son of a U.S. Army officer, Rivera regularly hosted military personnel and emphasized discipline, leadership, and sacrifice. The award served as a bright spot in a difficult season and reflected the respect Rivera still commanded across the league.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ron Rivera Fired For Performance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Harris made it clear, however, that it was indeed performance that drove the decision: \u201cWe weren\u2019t good enough this year. We didn\u2019t get it done on the field. And so, we\u2019ve decided to go in a new direction.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking ahead, Harris intends to split football operations and coaching duties. He brought in former Warriors GM Bob Myers<\/strong> and longtime NFL executive Rick Spielman<\/strong> to advise on hiring new leadership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Possible Replacements for Ron Rivera<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Speculation around Rivera\u2019s successor began immediately after the announcement. The Commanders\u2019 job is considered one of the most attractive vacancies due to a high draft pick, ample cap space, and new ownership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several top candidates emerged early:<\/p>\n\n\n\n