Commanders news: Sam Howell, Ron Rivera, Joe Hortiz and Black Monday
By Dean Jones
Ron Rivera's final thoughts
It was a poignant occasion for Ron Rivera on Sunday. The outgoing head coach couldn't pull off a major upset against the Dallas Cowboys. But the respected figure took in every moment - on his 62nd birthday, no less - before his inevitable fate arrives in the coming hours.
Most are expecting Rivera's name to be among the first fired on Black Monday. Four straight losing seasons and concerns about the roster building dictate as much. Josh Harris gave him a mini-reprive to soak in the adulation of players and coaches alike, but everyone knows what comes next.
When discussing the immediate future, Rivera all but conceded his time with the Washington Commanders had come to an end. He's also fully confident that Harris will do whatever is necessary to get the franchise back among the contenders based on comments via Clutch Points.
"I think the organization has to do what they believe is best for the organization. I really, truly believe that's what's going to happen. They'll make the best decision going forward."
- Ron Rivera via Clutch Points
We'll hear more from Rivera later today in what will probably be his exit statement. It was an immensely difficult situation to take on thanks in no small part to Dan Snyder. He's also overcome tremendous personal adversity, beating cancer and navigating the tricky COVID-19 situation. But in the end, this is a results business.