Ron Rivera has away from the NFL for a few years now but a comeback could be in the works.

The Carolina Panthers had a 102-103-2 record with Rivera at the helm. He led the franchise on a Super Bowl run during the 2015 season before falling short to the Denver Broncos. After his time in Carolina ended, he was hired by the Washington Commanders. Unfortunately, “Riverboat Ron” was unable to recapture the magic that made him a great coach with the Panthers.

In March 2025, Rivera announced that he was going to become the general manager for Cal’s football team. He couldn’t pass up the chance to help out his alma mater.

“This is an opportunity to come home and give back,” Rivera said. “The university has given me so much in my lifetime. It was kind of the launching pad that got me going into the direction that I did as far as playing professionally and ended up being an NFL coach and altogether 36 years involved in the NFL. … I’m looking for another challenge, another opportunity. But where better than to come home to the university and give back.”

While there’s no guarantee Rivera will leave Cal, he’s leaving the door open for a potential return to the NFL.

According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Arizona Cardinals interviewed Ron Rivera for their head coaching vacancy.

Who’s the favorite for the Cardinals?

Despite their interest in Rivera, the Cardinals seem to have their sights set on Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur.

LaFleur, 38, has been with the Rams for the past three seasons. He previously worked for the New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers.

If the Cardinals are going for a coach with untapped potential, LaFleur makes the most sense. On the flip side, Rivera would give the front office a proven commodity.