Former Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera clearly explained Dan Snyder’s turbulent leadership during his tenure as owner. Rivera, who took over the coaching role in 2020, appeared on Pardon My Take and shed light on what he believes was Snyder’s biggest flaw — his reactionary style.
Ron Rivera Sheds Light on Dan Snyder
“Mr. Snyder…was very reactionary. He was impacted a lot by things around him. And he was somebody that was really truly a fan. He loved everything about the Redskins. He really did,” Rivera stated, pointing out Snyder’s intense passion but lack of strategic direction.
Snyder, who purchased the team in 1999, was undeniably a superfan of the organization, which seemed to drive his determination to win. However, Rivera revealed that Snyder’s emotional investment and decision-making were often swayed by external pressures, limiting the team’s progress.
“He wanted to win…but didn’t quite understand how to go about it. He was trying to find the way right way to do it and there were too many outside interferences to get it done the way he wanted it to,” Rivera added. [01:46:41]
Snyder finally sold the Commanders in July 2023, with a record-breaking $6.05 billion deal to a group led by Josh Harris.
His departure marked the end of a tenure marred by controversies, including investigations into workplace misconduct.
Ron Rivera’s Tenure During Dan Snyder’s Ownership
Rivera’s journey as head coach of the Washington Redskins/Commanders under Dan Snyder’s ownership was marked by constant challenges, surprising decisions, and highs and lows for the Washington franchise. Starting in 2020, Rivera came in with Snyder’s strong endorsement, winning the team over with his leadership vision and background.
He brought in former Panthers staff and secured full control over the roster, making him Washington’s de facto GM until 2021. However, his first season saw immediate hurdles — team name change, the pandemic, and even a cancer diagnosis. Yet, Rivera led Washington to an NFC East title with a 7–9 record.
He made big calls, especially releasing quarterback Dwayne Haskins. He wanted to portray his no-nonsense approach to discipline and accountability. In 2021, Rivera opted for veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, only to lose him to injury early on, handing the reins to Taylor Heinicke, who rallied the team to a 7–10 finish.
By 2022, Rivera took a gamble by trading for Carson Wentz, which backfired and led to a quarterback change. Washington was in playoff contention, but the season ended at 8-8-1 amid widespread criticism of Rivera’s game management.
The 2023 season saw Rivera’s final gambit with Eric Bieniemy joining as assistant head coach and Sam Howell starting at quarterback. However, with a disappointing 4-13 finish and missing the playoffs, Rivera’s time under Snyder ended in January 2024.