Head coach Ron Rivera has signed a one-year contract extension with the Carolina Panthers.

Rivera’s contract was due to run out at the end of the 2017 season but has now been extended by a further 12 months after a year in which the Panthers came close to Super Bowl 50 glory.

The 54-year-old has been with the franchise since 2011 and overseen a transformation in their fortunes, leading them to a 15-1 regular season record in 2015 and their third straight NFC South title.

“It was an easy decision. Ron has worked extremely hard, and we are thrilled with our current direction,” general manager Dave Gettleman said.

“[Owner] Mr [Jerry] Richardson has established a great culture here, and Ron is a big part of that.”