Rivera is a proven name with a standout track record from his previous stops. He led the Carolina Panthers from 2011 through 2019, earning two NFL Coach of the Year awards and guiding the team to a 76-63-1 record with a Super Bowl appearance in 2015.
After moving to Washington, Rivera served as the Commanders’ head coach from 2020 to 2023, finishing 26-40-1 before his dismissal. He spent 2024 away from football and later resurfaced in college football as the California Golden Bears’ general manager in 2025.
A 64-year-old with a career mark of 102-103-2, Rivera now appears to be in contention for his third NFL head coaching opportunity. Notably, the Cardinals are the only team he has interviewed with in this hiring cycle, underscoring the selectivity and intrigue surrounding Arizona’s process.
The Cardinals’ coaching search has largely flown under the radar compared with other openings, and Rivera’s candidacy adds a higher-profile option to a still-developing scenario as New York Jets executives expand their staff duties and the Las Vegas Raiders narrow their list to final contenders.
No decision has been announced, and Arizona’s pursuit remains ongoing as the league’s two vacancies draw closer to resolution. The coaching market continues to watch how Rivera’s interview with the Cardinals might influence the next steps in Arizona’s plan.
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