Last season for the Golden Bears certainly fell short of the expectations set at the beginning, which is why all eyes are on what’s to come. With a new chapter on the horizon, the excitement surrounding the program is palpable. The buzz in the air is not just about the upcoming season but also about significant changes in the coaching staff.
Ron Rivera takes the helm as GM
According to recent reports, the new general manager for California could be none other than former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach, Ron Rivera. The experienced coach is currently serving as an analyst for the program, and his last NFL experience was in 2023. Rivera’s transition from the NFL to college football is a significant move that has many fans and analysts buzzing.
The information was provided by College Football insider Pete Nakos, who confirmed via his X (formerly Twitter) account @PeteNakos_ the imminent arrival of Rivera as the new GM for the Golden Bears. “Former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera is joining the Cal staff, a source tells @On3sports. He will assist the coaching staff and help with the player experience. @jjones9 first.”
A nod to Bill Belichick
Bill Belichick’s arrival as the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels sparked countless discussions, with many being inspired by this move to re-engage with College Football. Ron Rivera is one of them. NFL insider Adam Schefter shared on his official X account @AdamSchefter one of the reasons why the former Panthers and Commanders head coach is returning to the NCAAF.
“Former Commanders HC Ron Rivera texted that he is returning to his alma mater, Cal, to help the football program. “Coach Belichick has made going back to school, cool,” Rivera texted reporters today. “Stay tuned I am coming home. @CalAthletics @UCBerkeley @Cal #GoBears”
Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera looks on during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at FedExField on January 07, 2024.
The impact of NFL coaches in college football
Rivera’s move is just one part of a larger trend in college football where former NFL coaches are making their way back to the collegiate ranks. This shift is not only about personal career paths but also about the infusion of professional experience into college programs. The arrival of experienced coaches can bring a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the game.
Ron Rivera isn’t the only one accepting this challenge in College Football. At the end of last year, former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck became the new GM of Stanford. This trend of NFL veterans stepping into college roles is reshaping the landscape of college football and raising the stakes for upcoming seasons.
“Yeah, I can’t wait to work with Coach (Troy) Taylor and the staff and the guys on the team, he’s got the team pointed in the right direction, and we’ve been close,” Luck said on ESPN’s College GameDay. “We’ve been close for a couple of years. I had the chance to be on the hiring committee for him. And as everybody knows, in this game, it takes a team to go out and win. It is hard to win football games, and I think we’re putting the right team together.”
“I imagine this being very hands-on,” Luck also added. “And, yeah, we do have a vision. We absolutely have a vision. And, you know, I think we are under no illusion about the landscape of college sports is well and out there.”
Head Coach Bill Belichick of the North Carolina Tar Heels poses during a press conference on December 12, 2024.
Looking ahead to the future
With Rivera’s return to Cal and the influence of figures like Belichick, the future for the Golden Bears looks promising. The infusion of NFL experience into college football is a trend that could redefine how programs operate, recruit, and compete. Fans are eager to see how these changes will impact the team’s performance on the field.
As the Golden Bears prepare for the next season, the excitement is building. Will Rivera’s leadership and the influence of NFL veterans lead to a turnaround for the program? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: college football is in for an electrifying season ahead! The stage is set, and the players are ready to make their mark. Let the games begin!
