The Washington Commanders relieved head coach Ron Rivera of his duties on Monday morning. In a separate move, the Commanders also appointed former Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers to a prominent front-office role. Commanders owner Josh Harris and Myers are familiar with one another through their ventures in the NBA.
Harris was never expected to retain Rivera, who failed to lead the Commanders to a single winning season in four attempts. Myers’ appointment also indicates that Harris will aggressively attempt to land the head coaching candidate his heart desires. We’ve identified three potential candidates.
BILL BELICHICK, PATRIOTS HC
Expect the Commanders to quickly emerge as a legitimate suitor for Bill Belichick if the New England Patriots decide to make him available. Every franchise with an opening is waiting for the shoe to drop in New England. Will owner Robert Kraft move on from Belichick, who's won six Super Bowls and just concluded his league-leading 24th campaign in Foxboro?
The Patriots have consistently regressed since losing Tom Brady, and on Sunday, wrapped up a 4-13 season, the worst of the Belichick era. Belichick’s experience would be appealing to Harris and Myers, who are obsessed with bringing a Super Bowl to our nation’s capital. Belichick's unprecedented success could push his resume to the top of the pile. It’s worth acknowledging that Kraft may not outright fire Belichick if he decides to move on. Draft capital could be involved if Commanders want to appoint Belichick.
ERIC BIENIEMY, COMMANDERS OC
When Eric Bieniemy was named as Rivera's offensive coordinator and assistant head coach ahead of the 2023 campaign, many wondered if he was being positioned as a potential successor. With Sunday's loss to the Dallas Cowboys, the Commanders clinched the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. They'll likely target a quarterback with that pick, either USC's Caleb Williams or North Carolina's Drake Maye.
Hiring an offensive-minded head coach like Bieniemy could help the Commanders quickly develop the quarterback of their choosing. Bieniemy did something similar in Kansas City when working with Patrick Mahomes. It's precisely why Bieniemy was hired in the first place, to work with young quarterback Sam Howell. Howell flashed serious signs of progress before regressing towards the end of the season. Did Bieniemy do enough to garner Harris' consideration?
JIM HARBAUGH, MICHIGAN HC
Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh is the prized possession of the 2024 coaching carousel. Harbaugh may be coaching in his final collegiate game during Monday evening's National Championship tilt with the Washington Huskies. Of all owners who will be intrigued by Harbaugh, I wouldn't be surprised if Harris is the most aggressive in his pursuit.
Harbaugh is a proven winner, both at the professional and college ranks. He recently appointed super-agent Don Yee, who is an ideal fit to navigate his potential return to the NFL. Harris' Commanders are committed to building a long-term winner. That requires a strong culture and leadership figure. Harbaugh checks every box.
