Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera said that the organization was an easy target to attack, but that there was only one way to change their reputation.
The only way to fix it is to win, Rivera said.
Since Washington hired Rivera, he has had to contend with a number of issues, from a name change to sexual harassment allegations by former employees that predated his regime. The team was fined $10 million after an oral report was given to the commissioner.
In October, the House Oversight and Reform Committee became involved in the investigation of the NFL. In February, a former employee accused the owner of sexual harassment. The claim will be investigated by the NFL.
No reason was given for the drop in sponsorship with the franchise.
Rivera strongly denied that Washington was a mess and that players wanted to avoid it.
He said that they should stop hearing stuff secondhand and throw it out.
The team traded for a quarterback in free agency. The cap hit lessened what they could do in the early stages of free agency. J.D. McKissic decided to return after agreeing to terms with the Buffalo Bills.
In his 18 months on the job, the team president has turned over the business side. The co-CEO of the franchise is her husband. Washington's representative was at the owners meetings.
Rivera wants to get away from issues that don't involve football as he tries to rebuild the franchise.
He said that they are trying to do as a team. We are trying to get away from it because people want to pull you back into it. That is what I am trying to stress.
Rivera said their new name should help build on the momentum for change.
Rivera said that they have a chance for a change. I understand the seriousness of what happened over here, but my job is to create a sustainable winning culture and football is that. We are serious about it.
He said the situation in Washington is a lot better than people think, and he pointed to a solid offensive line and a 1,000-yard running back. The defense is still capable of success.
Washington has not had a winning season since 2016 and Rivera's first season ended with a 7-9 record. Last year, it finished around 10. This season is one in which they can make a leap, according to Rivera.
He said that he believes that, and that he should do the things he does to promote who we are. I believe in us. I believe in the fan base. The truth of the matter is that we have to win.
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