Ron Rivera’s comments regarding Eric Bieniemy have been discussed nationally in the last few days.
Theories are being suggested, some bizarre, some reasonable, most unfounded.
Jason Whitlock joined in, suggesting that “Bieniemy was hired to replace Rivera” and that “Rivera is letting the media and ownership know that Bieniemy’s style won’t work in the ultimate leadership position.”
Rivera, of course, has the top position when it comes to the football side of the organization. There is not a general manager or team president who outranks Rivera when it comes to the football team.
Going further, when Daniel Snyder cleared out his office last December, he never returned to a game nor to any business of the Commanders. He was done, moving out.
Consequently, if not Rivera, who was it that hired Bieniemy to replace Rivera? The Josh Harris ownership group did not even become official until July 20, months after the hiring of Bieniemy.
Perhaps might this be a case of Whitlock (and others) not realizing the coach-centric structure in place for the Washington Commanders, which gives all football-related decisions to Rivera for his oversight and final call.
Wednesday, Rivera went out of his way to read a prepared statement, owning his clumsy remarks. Some have strongly suggested the statement was written for Rivera, and he was forced to read it. But doesn’t that necessitate Rivera wasn’t truly owning it?
For instance, to those suggesting Rivera had to read the statement. Who was it then that prepared the statement? And whom was it ordering Rivera to read it?
One thing that remains true is that it is so much easier to form one’s theories and make one’s accusations than it is to provide proof/evidence of one’s theories. That has been and will always remain true in the human race.
It’s been a wild week; how about, until we actually know more, let’s talk some Washington Commanders football for the next few days, shall we?