Report: Eagles interviewing Ron Rivera, Mike Caldwell for vacant defensive coordinator position

After parting ways with Sean Desai and Matt Patricia, the Eagles have begun targeting coaches to fill their vacant defensive coordinator position.

First reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Philadelphia is interviewing former Commanders’ head coach Ron Rivera for the job.

Former #Commanders head coach Ron Rivera is interviewing with the #Eagles for their defensive coordinator position, per sources.

The last time Rivera was a DC, his 2010 Chargers led the league in total defense. pic.twitter.com/oZCDKb6nTc

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 22, 2024

Rivera, 62, served as the Eagles’ linebacker coach under Andy Reid from 1999-2003 and was credited with developing two-time All-Pro Jeremiah Trotter. Rivera’s familiarity with the front office and owner Jeffrey Lurie makes him an interesting candidate.

One year removed from having the No. 1 passing defense, the Eagles allowed the second-most passing yards per game (255.7) and third-most points per game (25.6) during the regular season, leading to the change of direction.

In 13 seasons as a head coach with the Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders, Rivera compiled a 102-103-2 record with a Super Bowl appearance in 2015.

Rivera stated he wanted to continue coaching if the “opportunity is right” following his dismissal from Washington — the chance to lead a defense without overseeing an entire team could fit the bill.

In his last season as defensive coordinator, the Chargers allowed the fewest total yards per game in the NFL under Rivera. The 2x Coach of the Year would bring a ton of experience as the Eagles aim to add more toughness.

Fowler also reports that Philadelphia is interviewing former Jaguars DC Mike Caldwell.

#Eagles are set to interview former #Jaguars DC Mike Caldwell, per source. Philly looking for a new defensive coordinator.

Caldwell also will speak with the Raiders for a senior defensive staff position with DC flexibility should Patrick Graham get a head coaching job.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 22, 2024

Caldwell, 51, played for the Eagles from 1998-2001 and was a defensive assistant/linebackers coach on Andy Reid’s staff from 2008-2012.

The Jaguars allowed nearly 30 points per game down the stretch in 2023, leading to a 1-5 finish and his eventual firing after two seasons as defensive coordinator. His unit was ranked 9th in rushing defense, 26th in passing defense, 25th in sacks, and 11th in takeaways.

Understandable recency bias doesnt look great for Ron Rivera, but he could be a good fit as D-coordinator in Philly. Ron gets players to buy in and play hard, might be able to mend some of whatever broke in that Eagles locker room.

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) January 22, 2024

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images