Former Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has had nearly a month to sit back and figure out his next move. The Panthers fired Rivera on December 3rd, and he has been fairly under the radar ever since. However, as we head into the final Sunday fo the 2019 NFL regular season, he has popped back on the radar.
NFL Network reporter Mike Silver sat down with Rivera recently and discussed where he’s at and what’s next. Silver suggests Rivera will be hired in the next 72 hours for a new job, and Rivera acknowledges he wants to make a quick decision.
“I’m ready to roll, and I’m ready to make a quick decision,” said Rivera, who has attracted interest from multiple teams pondering coaching changes. “In a roundabout way, word gets to you -- but nothing’s for sure (until an actual offer comes). So all you can do is prepare and be ready. That’s kind of what I’ve tried to do.”
NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport followed up saying that Rivera could very well get a deal somewhere within 48 hours. Ra mentioned Washington “among the teams with a real and legitimate interest.” However, with few firings happening yet, Rivera could wait and see what other options option. Rapoport said the Giants “figure to be among those interested,” although he hedged in saying that would be the case if they retain GM Dave Gettleman.
Rivera told Silver he is not concerned about locations or what division the team is in. Rather, he is concerned about personnel as far as if he can get the coaching staff he wants, and what kind of collaboration and cooperation will he have with the general manager. Given the nature of some front offices around the NFL, that could rule out teams with unnecessary drama.