BREAKING: CAROLINA PANTHERS FORMER COACH RON RIVERA ANNOUNCED RETURN AS GENERAL MANAGER OF THE PANTHERS AFTER LANDMARK DEALS FROM THE TEAM….

Ron Rivera, the most successful head coach in Carolina Panthers history, has not returned to the franchise as general manager. Instead, he has embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining his alma mater, the University of California, Berkeley, as the general manager of its football program. This move was officially announced on March 20, 2025, following approval by the UC Board of Regents .

A Homecoming to Cal

Rivera’s return to Cal is a significant homecoming. As a standout linebacker for the Golden Bears from 1980 to 1983, he earned All-American honors and left a lasting legacy at the university. His deep ties to Cal make this transition a meaningful one, both personally and professionally.

Role and Responsibilities

In his new role as general manager, Rivera is tasked with overseeing various aspects of the football program, including revenue generation, fundraising, and administrative operations. He reports directly to Chancellor Rich Lyons, while head coach Justin Wilcox continues to report to Athletic Director Jim Knowlton. This structure aims to streamline the program’s operations and adapt to the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal .

Rivera’s responsibilities also include strategic planning, budget oversight, and enhancing the program’s competitiveness within the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). His experience in the NFL is expected to bring a professional approach to the collegiate level, benefiting both players and staff.

Impact on Cal Football

Rivera’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to elevate Cal’s football program. His leadership and NFL experience are anticipated to attract top talent, improve player development, and foster a culture of excellence. Additionally, his presence is expected to boost fundraising efforts and strengthen relationships with alumni and donors.

Clarification on Panthers’ Management

While Rivera’s return to the Panthers as general manager would have been a significant development, it is important to note that the Panthers appointed Dan Morgan as their president of football operations and general manager in January 2024. Morgan, a former Panthers linebacker and executive with the Buffalo Bills, replaced Scott Fitterer in this role .

Conclusion

Ron Rivera’s transition to a general manager role at Cal marks a new and exciting chapter in his career. His deep connection to the university, combined with his extensive NFL experience, positions him to make a significant impact on the Golden Bears’ football program. While he is not returning to the Carolina Panthers in a managerial capacity, his influence on the sport continues to grow in meaningful ways.

Ron Rivera, the most successful head coach in Carolina Panthers history, has not returned to the franchise as general manager. Instead, he has embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining his alma mater, the University of California, Berkeley, as the general manager of its football program. This move was officially announced on March 20, 2025, following approval by the UC Board of Regents .

A Homecoming to Cal

Rivera’s return to Cal is a significant homecoming. As a standout linebacker for the Golden Bears from 1980 to 1983, he earned All-American honors and left a lasting legacy at the university. His deep ties to Cal make this transition a meaningful one, both personally and professionally.

Role and Responsibilities

In his new role as general manager, Rivera is tasked with overseeing various aspects of the football program, including revenue generation, fundraising, and administrative operations. He reports directly to Chancellor Rich Lyons, while head coach Justin Wilcox continues to report to Athletic Director Jim Knowlton. This structure aims to streamline the program’s operations and adapt to the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal .

Rivera’s responsibilities also include strategic planning, budget oversight, and enhancing the program’s competitiveness within the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). His experience in the NFL is expected to bring a professional approach to the collegiate level, benefiting both players and staff.

Impact on Cal Football

Rivera’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to elevate Cal’s football program. His leadership and NFL experience are anticipated to attract top talent, improve player development, and foster a culture of excellence. Additionally, his presence is expected to boost fundraising efforts and strengthen relationships with alumni and donors.

Clarification on Panthers’ Management

While Rivera’s return to the Panthers as general manager would have been a significant development, it is important to note that the Panthers appointed Dan Morgan as their president of football operations and general manager in January 2024. Morgan, a former Panthers linebacker and executive with the Buffalo Bills, replaced Scott Fitterer in this role .

Conclusion

Ron Rivera’s transition to a general manager role at Cal marks a new and exciting chapter in his career. His deep connection to the university, combined with his extensive NFL experience, positions him to make a significant impact on the Golden Bears’ football program. While he is not returning to the Carolina Panthers in a managerial capacity, his influence on the sport continues to grow in meaningful ways.