Now that the Washington Commanders have new ownership, the hot is even hotter for head coach Ron Rivera. Three seasons in charge, the Commanders have struggled under Rivera on the field.
He has compiled a 22-27-1 record in Washington. He has been unable to get a quarterback to stick. Even with the energy up in Washington with Dan Snyder out, Rivera’s seat is scorching with Josh Harris as the owner.
Rivera admitted that all his early conversations with Harris have been about winning. While that emphasized the elimination of distractions he faced with Snyder, it put the onus that Harris wants to win.
Rivera admitted his understanding that he must produce this upcoming season to keep his job.
“Oh, most certainly, I’ve got a lot to prove, Rivera said, per Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press. “I really do think we’ve put ourselves in a really good position. I think we’re a good young football team with some key veterans in key positions, and now is the opportunity to go. And yeah, I do feel that I want to prove some stuff.”
The good thing is Rivera and his regime, including general manager Martin Mayhew, have constructed a roster with a foundation, entering Year four. There are offensive stars at the skilled positions starting with wide receivers Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson.
Washington has a defense flooded with talent, starting with its defensive line — Daron Payne, Jonathan Allen, Chase Young, and Montez Sweat. The secondary is supremely talented with Kendall Fuller, this year’s first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes, and second-rounder Quan Martin at cornerback. Then there’s the safeties Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest.
The only question is at quarterback. Rivera will rely on second-year quarterback Sam Howell, whose only start came in last year’s season finale against the Dallas Cowboys. Trotting Howell out as the starter is great for the team in the long term. Yet, Rivera cannot afford the growing pains of a young quarterback, especially with a new owner ready to make a splash.
Ron Rivera must prove himself, possibly to keep his job beyond this season. He is “fired up” to be focused on football now Snyder is gone. However, he understands that, but understanding the magnitude of the situation may not be enough.
