In a significant move for California football, Ron Rivera has officially rejoined his alma mater as the football general manager. This announcement, made on Thursday, marks a new chapter for both Rivera and the Golden Bears, a team he once starred for in the early 1980s.
Rivera’s return to Cal is more than just a homecoming; it’s a strategic play aimed at revitalizing the program in an evolving landscape of college athletics. His role will center around enhancing fundraising and revenue opportunities, essential components for Cal to elevate its competitiveness in the ever-challenging realm of college football. Chancellor Rich Lyons emphasized the importance of the football program to the university and the community, stating, “We are taking the steps necessary so that the team can excel.” The optimism surrounding Rivera’s hiring is palpable, as Lyons pointed out the blend of Rivera’s profound football knowledge and his unwavering commitment to Cal makes him an ideal fit for this newly minted position.
For those who may not know, Rivera’s history at Cal is rich. He played 33 games as a linebacker from 1980 to 1983, leaving a mark as an All-American and earning the prestigious title of Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year in his final season. His talent on the field led to a second-round selection by the Chicago Bears in the NFL draft, where he went on to forge a successful coaching career.
After making his coaching debut with the Carolina Panthers in 2011, Rivera amassed a respectable 76-63-1 record over nine seasons, which included leading the team to four playoff appearances and a Super Bowl. He later took the helm of the Washington Commanders, guiding the team through a challenging tenure with a 26-40-1 record.
As Rivera steps into his new role, he faces the challenge of overseeing a Golden Bears team that has struggled to find its footing, finishing 6-7 in each of the last two seasons and posting a 2-6 record in ACC play since joining the conference in 2024. However, Rivera’s enthusiasm is evident. “I am fired up to be coming home,” he stated during Thursday’s announcement. “My love and passion for Cal has never changed, and I couldn’t be more excited about the future of our football program.”
With Rivera at the helm, there’s a sense of hope for a brighter future for the Golden Bears. As he collaborates with Chancellor Lyons, Athletic Director Jim Knowlton, head coach Justin Wilcox, and the team, fans are eager to see how this new direction unfolds and whether it leads Cal to compete for championships in this rapidly changing era of college football.
