The Washington Commanders had more questions than answers, leaving from its embarrassing loss to the previously winless Chicago Bears. The Commanders were left to wallow at the start of its mini-bye before moving on to Week 6.
With a new ownership, the futures of head coach Ron Rivera and defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio are now in doubt. After the 40-20 loss, Commanders’ fans have been pressing for new owner Josh Harris to make wholesale changes.
However, a recent report by CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson suggests that Harris will remain patient with Rivera and rely on the head coach to decide on his defensive coordinator this season.
Instead, Harris is more concerned with the impact of fans’ interest, particularly ticket sales, following the emotionally draining loss to the Bears.
With the Commanders coming off a 40-20 loss last week to the Bears on TNF, I’m told as of today*, managing partner Josh Harris’ perspective is to continue to allow things to play out when it comes to potential staff decisions, at this time, per source. Harris is a seasoned sports owner who is viewed internally as generally patient. I’m told one of Harris’ biggest concerns now though is the impact an emotional national loss may have on ticket sales–which always has to be taken into account too. Separately, when it comes to any decisions on defensive coordinator, there’s an internal impression that Ron Rivera would prefer to allow things to play out. Rivera’s relationship with Del Rio goes back a while as well
Despite winning their first two games, the Washington Commanders have lost three straight. A blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills was concerning but expected in Week 3. Then Washintgon played through a hard-fought loss to the defending NFC champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, in overtime. But the drubbing to the Bears, who snapped a 14-game losing streak, could taper fans’ excitement.
My understanding overall is that Harris does welcome consul from other owners and also understands that early searches can be beneficial if he elects to go that route, but moves like that customarily* occur closer to the beginning of the coaching carousel. Now, while I’m told some of the other limited partners have their own thoughts–and you can read between the lines there– we’ll see how things settle as the season evolves. There is still time for better results, but the clock is ticking.
The Commanders have managed to sell out its first three home games. That’s contributed to jubilation by the fans after Dan Snyder sold the team to Harris and his group of limited partners.
The team’s most notable limited partner, Magic Johnson, has made his media rounds, and his persuasive way with words gave Commanders fans hope and optimism.
Yet, the loss to the Bears has highlighted that there are some leftovers from the Snyder era that fans want to be dismissed by the team.
Ultimately, fan interest will be driven by the success or failures of the team on the field. With Rivera and Del Rio in their fourth year, Harris and his partners must use the temperature of the fan base to steer any calls on the coaching staff.
