Date of Birth: January 7, 1962
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Biography
Ron Rivera, born Ronald Eugene Rivera, is a prominent figure in American football, known for his achievements both as a player and a coach. He was born on January 7, 1962, in Fort Ord, California. Rivera played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, where he was a standout linebacker, earning several honors and helping to elevate the team’s defense. Rivera’s professional playing career began when he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 1984 NFL Draft. He played nine seasons with the Bears, including being a member of the legendary 1985 team that won Super Bowl XX. After retiring as a player, Rivera transitioned into coaching, starting as a quality control coach for the Bears in 1997. Rivera’s coaching career has been distinguished by several high-profile positions, including stints as a defensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears and the San Diego Chargers. He gained widespread recognition and success as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers, a position he held from 2011 to 2019. Under his leadership, the Panthers reached Super Bowl 50 and Rivera was named NFL Coach of the Year twice, in 2013 and 2015. In 2020, Rivera became the head coach of the Washington Football Team (now Washington Commanders). Despite facing personal health challenges, including a battle with squamous cell carcinoma, Rivera has continued to lead and inspire his team, earning respect throughout the league for his resilience and leadership.
5 Interesting Facts about Ron Rivera
1. Rivera is one of only a few individuals of Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage to be a head coach in the NFL.
2. He played a significant role in the Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl XX victory in 1985 as a linebacker.
3. Rivera was named the NFL Coach of the Year twice, first in 2013 and again in 2015.
4. He was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in 2020 but continued to coach while undergoing treatment.
5. Rivera led the Carolina Panthers to a 15-1 regular season record in 2015, culminating in a Super Bowl 50 appearance.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ron Rivera
1. “The only way to get better is to challenge yourself.”
2. “Tough times don’t last, tough people do.”
3. “Coaching is about the ability to teach and to inspire.”
4. “It’s not about how you start, it’s about how you finish.”
5. “Team success is the most important thing, individual accolades follow.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Ron Rivera is estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Ron Rivera has two children: 1. Christopher Rivera 2. Courtney Rivera
Relevant Links
1. [Ron Rivera’s Coaching Profile – NFL.com](https://www.nfl.com/players/ron-rivera/
