Jon Gruden’s Prospects in the Current Coaching Carousel Explored
As the NFL coaching carousel picks up momentum, Jon Gruden’s name remains conspicuously absent from the list of candidates for vacant positions. In July, Gruden expressed a desire for another opportunity in coaching, mentioning that he is “working hard to maybe get one more shot.” However, interest from the eight teams currently looking for a head coach has not materialized, at least publicly.
Jon Gruden’s Coaching History
Jon Gruden last served as a head coach in 2021, resigning amid scandals related to inappropriate emails that surfaced during his time at ESPN. Following his resignation, he filed a lawsuit against the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell, claiming unfair treatment leading to his exit from the league.
Legal Battle
Gruden’s legal proceedings have shown some success. The Nevada Supreme Court ruled that his case should not go through the NFL’s arbitration process, often criticized for lack of transparency. This decision keeps Gruden in a contentious position with the NFL, which has seemingly distanced itself from his legacy, choosing not to feature his contributions in their events.
Coaching Viability
Despite the controversies, Gruden’s ability to coach remains a contentious topic. The NFL’s potential reluctance to associate with him stems more from his legal issues than from the emails that led to his initial resignation. Evaluating his tenure, Gruden holds a regular-season record of 117-112, with two playoff appearances since his Super Bowl win in 2002.
- Gruden’s last coaching season: 2021
- Current age: 62
- Regular-season record: 117-112
- Playoff appearances since 2002: 2
Future Opportunities
With 25% of NFL head coaching positions currently vacant, Gruden’s opportunity for a return could be on the horizon. However, the prevailing question remains: will any team take the risk of hiring a coach who remains embroiled in legal disputes? Opinions vary, especially regarding the Las Vegas Raiders and their owner, Mark Davis. Rumors suggest that Davis may be hesitant to rehire Gruden, especially considering past objections to signing Tom Brady.
As the coaching search continues, Gruden’s prospects hang in the balance. While currently unattached to any NFL team, he remains a potential candidate for discussions, both formally and informally. Ultimately, it remains to be seen if he will reclaim his place in the NFL coaching ranks amidst this tumultuous backdrop.
