Commanders News: Sam Howell, Jonathan Allen, Emmanuel Forbes and Ron Rivera

Commanders HC Ron Rivera's job security

Losing a fourth consecutive game at the Atlanta Falcons would have piled exponential pressure on head coach Ron Rivera. The experienced figure knows his job is being scrutinized more than most around the league, which stems from three losing seasons and one playoff appearance since joining the Washington Commanders.

Rivera hasn't lost the locker room, which is a big boost. Something that was reflected in the team's fighting qualities to get back on track at the Falcons when things could have gone either way.

Things are still hanging in the balance for Rivera, in all honesty. This was a topic brought up by Tyler Sullivan from CBS Sports, who highlighted Washington's daunting run of games to conclude the 2023 campaign as a reason why Josh Harris' ownership group might go in a different direction once the season concludes.

"Over their final six games, the Commanders play the Cowboys twice, the 49ers, Dolphins, Rams (road) and Jets (road). Outside of the possibility of teams resting starters, Washington is probably an underdog in each of those games, setting up the possibility of a 0-5 run to end the year. Under that circumstance, Rivera won't have much momentum to keep his job for 2024."

- Tyler Sullivan, CBS Sports

There is a lot of football left before some big decisions are due. Rivera won't stop fighting and there is enough talent to potentially surprise, but it could be playoffs or bust if he wants to see another year in Washington.