Never underestimate a well-timed football epiphany. After starting the 2013 season on the hot seat, coach Ron Rivera has parlayed his new riverboat-gambler persona into much-needed job security. The Carolina Panthers announced a three-year contract extension for Rivera on Tuesday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported later that day that the extension is worth between $4 million and $5 million per year with playoff incentives, according to a source who has seen the new terms. Under his prior deal, Rivera had one year left and was averaging just under $3 million per season. A legitimate candidate to take home the Coach of the Year Award at NFL Honors on Saturday, Rivera guided the Panthers to 12 wins, the NFC South division title and the franchise's first playoff appearance since 2008. "The improvement of our team has been reflected in the progress of the record over the last three seasons under Ron, and we look forward to building upon that foundation," owner Jerry Richardson said Tuesday. Source: NFL.com
