Ron Rivera Emerges as Potential Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Candidate

DALLAS, Texas — Ron Rivera, the former head coach of the Washington Commanders, is reportedly being considered as a potential candidate for the Dallas Cowboys‘ head coaching position. Despite not yet being interviewed by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Rivera’s name has surfaced as a possible conservative option amid the team’s ongoing search for leadership.

Rivera, who led the then-Washington Football Team to a division title in his first season, struggled in subsequent years, finishing third or fourth in the NFC East. His tenure was marked by challenges in player motivation, personnel evaluation, and in-game adjustments. However, his experience and defensive expertise have drawn attention as the Cowboys seek to address their defensive struggles, which saw them give up the second-most points and fifth-most yards in the league last season.

“Rivera won a division title in his first season with Washington,” said analyst Maurice Moton. “In Dallas, he wouldn’t have to worry about the quarterback position, with Dak Prescott entrenched as the starter. He could use his expertise to strengthen the Cowboys’ defense.”

Jones’ handling of the coaching search has faced criticism, with the Cowboys falling behind as leading candidates accept positions elsewhere. While rumors linking Colorado head coach Deion Sanders to the role have subsided, Rivera’s potential hiring would represent a low-buzz, experienced option. Jones has a history of hiring retread coaches, including Mike McCarthy, Wade Phillips, and Bill Parcells, which Moton cited as a reason Rivera’s candidacy cannot be ruled out.

Rivera, who took a year off after being dismissed by the Commanders, has interviewed for three head coaching positions this offseason but has yet to secure a second interview. His potential move to Dallas would likely be met with mixed reactions, particularly from Commanders fans, who saw his tenure as underwhelming. “Rivera couldn’t motivate his players,” one observer noted. “His inability to adjust in-game or prepare his squad effectively came with complications.”

Despite his challenges in Washington, Rivera is respected for overcoming personal adversity during his time with the Commanders. However, some believe the game has passed him by. “He’s a good guy, but the game has evolved,” said another analyst.

For Jones, hiring Rivera would allow him to remain the center of attention, a role he has long embraced. “If people are talking about the Cowboys and he’s making money, that suffices,” said a source close to the team. “It’s been three decades of underachievement, but Jones seems content as long as the spotlight remains on him.”

While Rivera’s potential hiring remains speculative, it would mark an unexpected twist in the Cowboys’ coaching saga. For now, the search continues, with no clear frontrunner in sight.