NFL News Update: Five Reasons Why Ron Rivera Was Fired by Washington Commanders

Published 01/08/2024, 2:13 PM EST

The Washington Commanders have finally decided to part ways with head coach Ron Rivera after a challenging season. This development aligns with prior speculations and Rivera’s own expectations. It was reported by ESPN and other sources. The team’s season concluded with a lowly 4-13 record. It was epitomized by a 38-10 loss against the Cowboys.

This defeat occurred on Rivera’s 62nd birthday and proved to be emblematic of the broader difficulties he encountered in his efforts to rejuvenate the team. Despite his promises of a turnaround, Rivera’s tenure ended without realizing the anticipated revitalization. But why was this action taken? Here are five major reasons that could be responsible for it.

Did Ron Rivera deserve to get fired?

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After inheriting a challenging situation at the Commanders in 2020, Ron Rivera’s ambition was to overhaul the team’s reputation. Not just in game play, but also in organizational ethics. However, first, his tenure yielded a modest 26-40-1 record over four seasons. This is not really a good record according to NFL standards. Not to mention, it’s also a stark contrast to his more successful nine-year run with the Carolina Panthers. His time there also included a Super Bowl appearance and a 76-63-1 record.

The off-field issues in Washington were deeply tied to the then-owner Dan Snyder. And clearly, they were out of Rivera’s control. Notably, it was only after Snyder’s exit in July 2023 that the team’s off-field credibility began to see a turnaround. Secondly, during Rivera’s leadership, the Commanders experienced a period of stagnation. They failed to achieve a winning season in his first three years. He could only manage a single playoff appearance. Thirdly, the situation deteriorated even further in Rivera’s final season, as the team stumbled to a 4-13 record.

This decline is underscored by the fact that for the 2024 NFL season, Washington holds the second overall pick in the draft. And this is a position eerily reminiscent of Rivera’s starting point with the franchise in 2020. Fourth reason could be their lack of potent offense, which was clearly visible in the team’s displays. The team only earning a 4-13 record adds to the proof of it. And lastly, the team has better options than him. Featuring Bill Belichick and many other options out there. All these reasons collectively became responsible for Rivera’s firing.

Ron Rivera reflected on tenure with Commanders

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In a statement shared by the Commanders, Ron Rivera reflected on his tenure with a mix of pride and acknowledgment of his ongoing challenges. He did not forget to emphasize the strides made in altering the team’s dynamics.

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He said, “I believe we began to change the culture of this organization in meaningful ways.” Rivera also recognized the difficulties faced, remarking, “It wasn’t easy and there is a lot more to be done.” On a personal note, he described his time with the franchise as “one of the greatest honors” of his career.

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Even after being fired, he did appreciate the opportunity to lead and for the fervent support of the team’s fans. Who do you think will be the next coach?

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Written by:

?Winning is not everything ? but making the effort to win is." This quote by Vince Lombardi of the Green Bay Packers drives me. My journey into the world of the NFL started unexpectedly after the 2022 season thanks to a friend who introduced me to the sport.

Edited by:

Garima Yadav

NFL News Update: Five Reasons Why Ron Rivera Was Fired by Washington Commanders

Did Ron Rivera deserve to get fired?

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Ron Rivera reflected on tenure with Commanders