The Washington Commanders parted ways with coach Ron Rivera after a disappointing 2023 season that saw the team finish 4–13, their worst record since 2019. 

The franchise introduced new general manager Adam Peters on Tuesday, and he laid out the groundwork for what the Commanders will be looking for in the search for their next head coach.

“We’re looking for the best leader for this team, the Washington Commanders,” said Peters, via JP Finlay of NBC Sports. “It’s not gonna be in a box. It’s not gonna be offense or defense. It’s going to be the best leader for this organization.”

Earlier on Tuesday, NFL Network’s Rich Eisen floated the idea of former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick taking over in Washington following the departure of Rivera.

Belichick and the Patriots agreed to mutually part ways last week after 24 seasons, during which he won six Super Bowls and 17 division titles.

The Atlanta Falcons announced Monday that they’d conducted an interview with Belichick, who figures to be one of the most coveted coaches in the current cycle.

The Commanders are seeking their first season above .500 since 2016, and Peters made clear that leadership is a necessary quality for whomever takes over as the franchise’s 31st head coach.