Ron Rivera Siblings: All About Steven, Michael and John

Ron Rivera, born January 7, 1962, is a former NFL linebacker and head coach, notably with the Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders.

He has 13 years of head coaching experience, compiling a record of 102-103-2 and leading the Panthers to Super Bowl 50.

Recently fired from Washington after a 4-13 season, Rivera is set to interview for the New York Jets’ head coaching position this week.

He was named AP NFL Coach of the Year twice during his tenure with the Panthers.

Siblings

Rivera has three brothers, namely Steven, Michael, and John.

He is the second youngest in his family. Rivera’s brother Michael passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2015, which deeply affected him and inspired his advocacy for cancer awareness.

Career

Rivera played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, where he distinguished himself as a standout linebacker.

He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 1984 NFL Draft and went on to have a successful nine-season career in the NFL.

As a linebacker for the Bears, he was part of the legendary defense that helped the team secure victory in Super Bowl XX in 1985.

Known for his intelligence and ability to read offenses, Rivera contributed significantly to the Bears’ defensive success during his playing days.

After retiring as a player, Rivera began his coaching career in 1997 as a defensive quality control coach for the Chicago Bears.

He later served as linebackers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2004 to 2006, where he helped develop key players and improve the team’s defensive strategies.

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In 2007, he became the defensive coordinator for the San Diego Chargers.

Under his leadership, the Chargers’ defense ranked among the top in the league, showcasing his ability to develop talent and create effective game plans.

Rivera’s most notable tenure came when he was hired as head coach of the Carolina Panthers in 2011.

Over his eight seasons with the Panthers, he achieved significant success, including leading the team to a franchise-record 15-1 season in 2015 and a trip to Super Bowl 50.

During this time, he was named NFL Coach of the Year twice, in 2013 and 2015.

Rivera established a strong defensive identity for the Panthers and played a crucial role in developing quarterback Cam Newton into an MVP-caliber player.

In January 2020, Rivera took over as head coach of the Washington Commanders.

His tenure there involved navigating various challenges, including team name changes and rebuilding efforts.

Despite these hurdles, he focused on improving team culture and performance.

However, after a disappointing season that concluded with a record of 4-13, Rivera was fired in January 2024.

Rivera is respected not only for his coaching acumen but also for his leadership qualities and commitment to community service.

Following his brother Michael’s battle with pancreatic cancer, Rivera became an advocate for cancer awareness.

Known for his strong defensive strategies and player development skills, he has built competitive defenses throughout his coaching career.

Accolades

Rivera is a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, winning the award in 2013 and again in 2015 after leading the Carolina Panthers to a franchise-record 15-1 season and a Super Bowl appearance.

He also earned the NFC Coach of the Year honors multiple times, including for his turnaround of the Washington Commanders.

In addition to coaching awards, Rivera was honored with the 2022 George Halas Award for overcoming adversity during his battle with cancer.

He also received the Salute to Service Award in 2023 for his commitment to supporting the military community.

Rivera’s impact extends beyond coaching, as he was recognized with the Hispanic Heritage Sports Award in 2021, becoming the first player of Puerto Rican heritage to win a Super Bowl title with the Bears in 1985.