Oct 9, 2022; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera stands on the field after the Commanders' game against the Tennessee Titans at FedEx Field. Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Commanders HC Ron Rivera misses practice ahead of Week 8

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 10/26/22

The Washington Commanders started trending on social media on Wednesday for a peculiar reason: Head coach Ron Rivera wasn't at practice with the team as they prepare for their Week 8 matchup against the Colts in Indianapolis.

Reports quickly surfaced, however, that the long-time coach won't be away from the team for long. Rivera is reportedly on the other side of the country tending to some family business expected to rejoin Washington later this week.

Ron Rivera won’t be at practice today because of a personal family matter with his mother. He’s in California and expected to return to Virginia tonight.
— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) October 26, 2022

With Rivera out of the office, defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio took over head coaching duties for the day.

Washington is heading into Week 8 with new-found optimism after stringing back-to-back wins together over the Bears and the Packers. Their win in Week 7 in Green Bay was particularly exciting as quarterback Taylor Heinicke seemingly rejuvenated a team that started 1-4 with Carson Wentz under center.

The Commanders still sit in last in the NFC East but can get back to .500 with a win against a Sam Ehlinger-led Colts team in Week 8.

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