Ron Rivera hints at Commanders 'getting close' to making changes

The Washington Commanders are reeling on a three-game losing streak. The team hoped quarterback Carson Wentz would be the answer to turn around their fortunes entering head coach Ron Rivera’s third year. 

However, Wentz has shown glimpses of why the Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts traded him in back-to-back offseasons. The offensive line is in shambles with injuries and poor play. Wentz has been sacked the most of any quarterback in the NFL this season. 

Skill positions players are also struggling. The talented trio of wide receivers, Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and rookie Jahan Dotson are among the least-open receivers in the league. 

The defense is also an issue, yielding 371.8 yards and 26.8 points per game. Washington’s secondary continues to blow coverage in defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio’s scheme. The defensive line, while without 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Chase Young, has struggled to get pressure on the quarterback. 

With that said, something has to give. Fans are frustrated. Their patience is running thin. Rivera has taken notice as evident by his recent tirade following Sunday’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

If the Commanders can’t get things turned around, changes may be in store. Rivera hinted at possible changes when sitting down with NBC Sports Washington’s JP Finlay.

“It’s something that we have to address if it gets to that point, and we’re getting close,” Rivera told Finlay (h/t Nicki Jhabvala). “To be honest, we’re getting close. Why? Because the thing I have to make sure is that when we get to this point – and I went through this in Carolina – when you get to this point, you have to determine if what’s going on is a liability.”

Rivera didn’t specify what changes would be made. It’s unclear if he’s talking about a change at quarterback; possibly coaching changes or other personnel moves.

He already fired defensive line coach Sam Mills III before the start of the regular season. Del Rio, offensive coordinator Scott Turner, and defensive back coach Chris Harris have been placed in hot seats by fans on social media. 

With Wentz struggling, backup quarterbacks Taylor Heinicke and rookie Sam Howell have grown popular among fans. There’s been skepticism of Del Rio since his controversial take on the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot. But the performance of the defense in the last two seasons has drawn the ire of Commanders’ supporters.

One thing is certain another loss could be devastating for the team. Washington enters Week 5 with a 1-3 record. Rivera hasn’t had a winning season yet in Washington.

The Ron Rivera era has been disappointing. He’s 15-22 as the Commanders’ coach. Time is running out. Making some changes may be the only solution.