The Chicago Bears have taken a step back into their history, engaging in discussions with former coach Ron Rivera, who previously led the Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders, for their head coaching position on Sunday.

Rivera, famously dubbed “Riverboat Ron” for his bold decision-making, has a career record of 102 wins, 103 losses, and 2 ties, spanning 13 seasons. His coaching tenure includes nine seasons with the Panthers and four with Washington. Under Rivera’s leadership, the Panthers achieved a 76-63-1 record and made a Super Bowl appearance in 2015. However, he was dismissed late in the 2019 season. His time with the Commanders saw him post a 26-40-1 record from 2020 to 2023, and he never managed to achieve a winning season, although his 2020 squad reached the playoffs after clinching the weak NFC East division with a 7-9 record.

In addition to interviewing with the Bears, Rivera is also in the running for the head coaching vacancy with the New York Jets. His connection to Chicago is quite profound, as he had a notable career with the team as both a linebacker and assistant coach.

During his nine seasons as a player for the Bears, Rivera participated in 137 games, making 56 starts, and was part of the legendary 1985 squad that secured the franchise’s only Super Bowl title, backed by the notorious “46” defense. Furthermore, he served as the defensive coordinator under Lovie Smith from 2004 to 2006, during which time the formidable defense, highlighted by Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, led the Bears to another Super Bowl appearance.

The Bears concluded their latest campaign at the bottom of the NFC North standings with a record of 5 wins and 12 losses. They are seeking to fill the head coaching role left vacant when they decided to part ways with Matt Eberflus on November 29.

In addition to Rivera, the Bears have already interviewed a host of candidates, including Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn this past Saturday. Other notable names in the interview lineup include former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, although Vrabel has since taken a new position with New England.