Cal Donors Demand Changes Amid Control Issues in Football Program

BERKELEY, Calif. — Two major benefactors of the University of California’s athletics program have halted their contributions to the California Legends Collective, the school’s third-party NIL initiative. They demand that new general manager Ron Rivera be given full control over the football program, which is currently overseen by coach Justin Wilcox and athletic director Jim Knowlton.

The decision comes as Rivera’s role has yet to transition into a full executive capacity for the football team. Supporters of this shift argue that Rivera’s extensive experience as an NFL head coach positions him best to lead the program through the evolving landscape of college athletics.

“You don’t hire Mario Andretti and ask him to sit in the passenger seat, right?” said Kevin Kennedy, president of the California Legends Collective, according to SFGATE. “There’s a reason that you bring someone like that on staff: In order to give him control.” Kennedy is among the key donors who have temporarily withdrawn financial support, intensifying discussions about leadership within Cal football.

Rivera, a former linebacker at Cal, previously coached the Carolina Panthers and was most recently with the Washington Commanders. His coaching tenure included two NFL Coach of the Year honors and a reputation for understanding both strategy and finances—an increasingly valuable asset as college programs grapple with NIL reforms and impending revenue-sharing changes.

However, granting Rivera complete autonomy would be a significant departure from the traditional structure within college programs. Other institutions in the Power Four have not yet placed general managers in such powerful positions, although they do contribute effectively to roster management and recruiting.

The situation at Stanford University serves as an example of consolidation of power in football leadership roles. Stanford’s new general manager, Andrew Luck, was appointed during a turbulent period following coach Troy Taylor‘s ousting due to an investigation into misconduct. Cal, facing no such crisis, has reasons for caution.

Wilcox has been successful, leading the team to a bowl appearance in his first year with the ACC despite tough travel adjustments. With a current record of 6-7 and near misses against ranked opponents, the framework at Cal suggests stability rather than upheaval.

While Rivera’s influence could enhance Cal’s strategy, it remains uncertain how a shift in control would impact Wilcox, who has received interest from other colleges in the past. His ability to navigate the pressure of leading a program is supported by his youth and tenacity at 48 years old. Nonetheless, many agree that while incorporating Rivera’s expertise is essential, Cal may not be in dire need of a drastic overhaul at this time.