Josh Harris, Commanders owner, to Assess Ron Rivera After Season, Pending Unforeseen Events

Upon officially taking over as the owner of the Commanders in July, Josh Harris opted to refrain from any major changes for the time being, instead choosing to use the entire year to thoroughly assess the team he had acquired.

This deliberate approach extends to the evaluation of coach Ron Rivera and the rest of the current leadership in Washington, as well as the front office. The plan is to maintain this stance throughout the entire season.

Although the Commanders have yet to make the playoffs, Harris and the team’s management intend to review Rivera’s performance after the conclusion of the regular season, recognizing the significance of the upcoming offseason.

Despite this approach, the Commanders are entering the Thanksgiving Day game against the Cowboys following a demoralizing loss to the Giants, characterized as “a low point for sure” by Rivera. The defeat to a team led by undrafted rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito has been particularly impactful.

There is uncertainty surrounding the organization’s plans going into Thursday’s game, especially considering last week’s devastating loss to the Giants and the possibility of a blowout defeat to the Cowboys. Such outcomes could potentially alter the previously established plans.

As history has demonstrated, a disappointing nationally televised result can prompt significant changes, even if the initial intention was the opposite.

Rivera, boasting a career record of 102-97-2, is widely respected in the NFL, with 26 of his victories coming during his tenure with the Commanders, which led to a playoff appearance in 2020.

The organization provided unwavering support for Rivera during his battle with cancer, while he faced numerous off-the-field investigations into the franchise during Dan Snyder’s ownership (Snyder sold the team in the offseason).

Rivera has cultivated a strong relationship with Harris and engaged in extensive football discussions. The team does not desire to make any coaching changes during the season, but a thorough evaluation will occur post-season.

Notwithstanding any potential changes, there are positive prospects for the Commanders in 2024. Ownership remains optimistic about the long term, especially with nearly $90 million in salary-cap space expected, significant draft capital from the Oct. 31 trades of Montez Sweat and Chase Young, and a well-resourced ownership group.

The Commanders aim to demonstrate progress for the remainder of the season, proving that they are moving in the right direction. A strong showing in the upcoming game would be beneficial in this regard.

Sources emphasize that Harris understands that a coaching change rarely stabilizes a situation. It may lead to an initial corrective phase, but subsequent developments could worsen the situation for everyone involved.

For this reason, the hope is to maintain the status quo until Week 18, if the on-field performance allows for it.