Josh Harris reported approach should be music to Commanders fans' ears

Josh Harris' reported approach to taking the Washington Commanders forward should be music to the ears of every long-suffering fan.

It doesn't take a nuclear physicist to work out that Ron Rivera's time as Washington Commanders head coach is nearing its conclusion. The writing's been on the wall almost from the moment Josh Harris' ownership group wrestled the franchise from Dan Snyder's grasp. After months of speculation, the moment for action has finally arrived.

Harris spent a considerable period assessing the football operation. The Commanders have flattered to deceive under Rivera for the fourth straight season. He deserves credit for handling a difficult situation with dignity, but the respected figure can have no complaints when the conversation with ownership arrives.

Commanders going down traditional route under Josh Harris

According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Rivera and his staff are aware of their upcoming fate. The senior insider added that Harris plans to go down the traditional route to success. This involves hiring a new general manager and allowing them to have a leading say in who the next head coach should be.

There is also the small matter of keeping an eye on developments between Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots to factor into the equation.

"Ron Rivera has worn many hats in Washington during his four years as head coach. At different times he seemed to be playing the part of owner, general manager, public relations official and head coach. After serving in all of those roles, on Monday he might not have one. I was told by league sources that Rivera and his staff are well aware his time in Washington is coming to an end. Though this season started with promise, new owner Josh Harris began discussions in search of a new head coach and general manager a few weeks back, according to a league source. The Commanders are keeping an eye on what happens in New England while hoping to hire a general manager first before landing their next head coach."

- Dianna Russini, The Athletic

This should come as pleasing news to Commanders' fans. There was nothing traditional about the way Snyder approached matters. The inevitable failure followed for two decades. Now, all signs point to a stronger foundation with Harris leading the charge.

Belichick would be a controversial hire. His current standing is being perceived as much more optimistic in league circles than across the fanbase. The credentials and accomplishments he brings to the table are unmatched. The big question centers on whether the legendary coach's powers are waning at this late stage of his career.

There is a tremendous amount of rumors running rampant at the moment. Things should thankfully become clearer in a few days or weeks. Russini's report suggests Harris has been working on his grand plan for some time. This gives the Commanders the best possible chance to hit the ground running once their Week 18 game against the Dallas Cowboys is in the rearview mirror.

One thing that cannot be disputed is Rivera's status. Martin Mayhew, too. Their time in Washington is quickly coming to an end.

Hopefully, these landmark alterations can be the start of a more profitable future under ambitious owners willing to do whatever it takes to get the Commanders back among the NFL elite. Lord knows it's been a long time coming.