The process of finding a new head of football operations and coach to succeed Ron Rivera has been initiated by the ownership of Washington Commanders. The franchise is considering Jim Harbaugh from Michigan, among various other potential candidates.
The team has indicated interest in having discussions with Harbaugh. The Commanders have also made requests to speak with a number of assistant general managers, including Alec Halaby from Philadelphia and Mike Borgonzi from Kansas City. Additionally, they have reached out to Baltimore regarding Anthony Weaver, who serves as the defensive line/assistant head coach.
The Cleveland Browns have given permission for discussions with assistant GM Glenn Cook, according to a source. Furthermore, Washington has also requested to hold talks with San Francisco assistant GM Adam Peters. These details were revealed by individuals with knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity since the team has not yet publicized its list of potential candidates.
After dismissing Rivera, controlling owner Josh Harris stated during a news conference, “I don’t think we want to get into specifics around the process, but we’ve been thinking about who the best candidates are, and I think it’s an attractive destination.”
While coaching Michigan in the national title game Monday night, Harbaugh, who is rumored to be contemplating a return to the NFL, has been a subject of discussion. Harris expressed a preference for making separate hires to manage the front office and coach the team. However, he did not rule out the possibility of one person assuming both roles, similar to what Rivera did.
Assisting Harris and co-owners Magic Johnson, Mitch Rales, and David Blitzer in the search processes are longtime NBA executive Bob Myers and former Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman. Myers, known for building the Golden State Warriors into four-time NBA champions and being a two-time executive of the year, will be advising Harris and staying on to assist beyond the searches, as confirmed by Harris. Spielman, who spent a decade as Vikings GM and five years as VP of player personnel, brings valuable experience to aid in the search.
Harris’ group acquired the team from Snyder last year for a North American professional sports record $6.05 billion. Rivera, despite exiting the organization, conveyed optimism about the future under new ownership, emphasizing the commitment and effort shown by Harris and the investor group.
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AP Pro Football Writers Rob Maaddi and Josh Dubow and AP Sports Writer Tom Withers contributed.
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