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It's the first head coaching job for the 49-year-old Rivera, a son of a U.S. Army officer who is of Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage. He joins ex-Raiders and Seahawks boss Tom Flores as the only Hispanic head coaches.

"I'm very proud of the fact that I am of Hispanic descent," Rivera said. "I'm very honored to have this opportunity."

It took a while. Rivera interviewed for eight head coaching jobs in six years. He said that experience helped when the Panthers called.

"I'm excited for Ron," Chargers coach Norv Turner said. "He has aspired to be an NFL head coach and I expect him to do an outstanding job.