Jon Gruden has long been a prominent figure in American football. Known for his fiery coaching style, football IQ, and charismatic media presence, Gruden has left a lasting mark on both the NFL and the world of sports broadcasting. From winning a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to serving as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, his career has been filled with highs, controversies, and comebacks. But after his abrupt departure from the Raiders, many fans ask: what is Jon Gruden doing now? This article explores his post-NFL life, ongoing contributions to football, and what the future might hold for this iconic coach.
Early Career and Coaching Rise
Jon Gruden was born on August 17, 1963, in Sandusky, Ohio. Football was in his blood from an early age. His father, Jim Gruden, worked as a scout and quarterbacks coach for various NFL teams, which helped ignite Jon’s passion for the game.
After playing as a quarterback at the University of Dayton, Gruden quickly transitioned into coaching. His early career included roles as a graduate assistant and positional coach at universities like Tennessee and Missouri. He made his NFL debut as an assistant for the Green Bay Packers, where he worked under head coach Mike Holmgren.
Gruden’s talent for designing offenses and connecting with quarterbacks quickly earned him recognition. By the late 1990s, he was one of the youngest and most promising head coaches in the league.
Head Coach and Super Bowl Champion
Jon Gruden first became a head coach in 1998 with the Oakland Raiders. Over four seasons, he turned the struggling franchise into a playoff contender. In 2002, he was traded—an unusual move for a coach—to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
That same season, Gruden led the Buccaneers to victory in Super Bowl XXXVII, defeating his former team, the Raiders. At just 39 years old, he became the youngest head coach to win a Super Bowl at the time.
His tenure in Tampa Bay solidified his status as one of the NFL’s top minds. Known for his intense preparation, animated sideline behavior, and motivational speeches, Gruden became a larger-than-life figure in American sports.
Transition to Broadcasting and ESPN
After being fired by the Buccaneers in 2009, Gruden made a seamless move into sports broadcasting. He joined ESPN as a color commentator for Monday Night Football, where he served for nearly a decade.
Gruden became a fan favorite in the booth. His quirky personality, deep football knowledge, and catchphrases like “This guy right here!” added a unique flair to NFL broadcasts. He also led ESPN’s “Gruden’s QB Camp,” where he interviewed and mentored top NFL draft prospects.
During this time, Gruden remained close to the game while rebuilding his image and expanding his influence. Many speculated that a return to coaching was inevitable.
Return to the Raiders and NFL Controversy
In 2018, Jon Gruden made a dramatic return to coaching, signing a 10-year, $100 million contract with the Oakland Raiders (later relocated to Las Vegas). The move was seen as a bold investment by owner Mark Davis, banking on Gruden to restore the team’s legacy.
Gruden’s second stint with the Raiders was marked by a rebuild process, including key draft picks and roster overhauls. Although the team showed signs of improvement, consistent playoff success remained elusive.
In 2021, Gruden resigned as head coach following the release of emails containing offensive language related to race, gender, and sexual orientation. The messages, which emerged during an investigation into workplace misconduct in another NFL organization, led to intense public scrutiny and ended his coaching tenure.
What is Jon Gruden Doing Now?
Since stepping down from the Raiders in 2021, Jon Gruden has kept a relatively low profile. However, he has slowly reemerged in football circles, engaging in coaching advisory roles and attending private football functions.
Informal Coaching and Consulting Roles
Reports suggest that Gruden has provided consulting advice to college football programs and former colleagues in the NFL. Though not in an official coaching capacity, his expertise remains highly valued in quarterback development and offensive planning.
In 2023, he made headlines by working informally with the New Orleans Saints during offseason quarterback development. He was invited by head coach Dennis Allen to consult on how to tailor the offensive system to suit new quarterback Derek Carr—who previously played under Gruden with the Raiders.
This quiet return signaled that Gruden is still passionate about football and is staying connected to the game, albeit in a less publicized capacity.
Legal Action Against the NFL
After his resignation, Jon Gruden filed a lawsuit against the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell, alleging that his private emails were selectively leaked in a manner that intentionally harmed his career. The legal battle remains ongoing, with implications for privacy and accountability within the league.
The case has drawn attention to issues surrounding transparency, email surveillance, and leadership ethics in professional sports. While the outcome remains uncertain, Gruden’s legal pursuit reflects his intent to defend his name and possibly return to the coaching world in the future.
Public Perception and Legacy
Jon Gruden’s legacy is complex. He is celebrated as a Super Bowl champion and revered offensive mind, but his career has also been marred by controversy. His email scandal prompted wide-ranging debates about workplace conduct, digital privacy, and professional accountability.
Despite this, Gruden still has supporters—particularly among former players and fans who appreciated his intensity, knowledge, and leadership style. His influence on quarterback development, offensive strategy, and team culture remains evident across the NFL.
As time passes, some believe Gruden may be offered another chance in coaching, particularly in a reduced or behind-the-scenes role.
Current Public Appearances
In recent months, Gruden has appeared at private football clinics, coaching conventions, and leadership seminars. These appearances are typically off-camera and focused on mentoring young athletes or speaking about leadership in sports.
Though he has not returned to television or accepted a formal job, these activities suggest that Gruden is actively rebuilding his professional relationships and reputation.
Family and Personal Life
Gruden is married to Cindy Gruden, and they have three sons. One of his sons, Deuce Gruden, works as a strength and conditioning coach in the NFL.
Known for his intense work ethic, Jon Gruden is also an advocate for youth football and fitness. During his media career, he often highlighted the importance of discipline, perseverance, and lifelong learning.
While he now leads a more private life, his connection to football remains strong.
Possible Future Endeavors
Although Gruden has not announced any official return, several possibilities remain open:
- Coaching at the collegiate level: His expertise and notoriety could make him a candidate for a major college football program willing to take a risk.
- Private consulting: Continued behind-the-scenes roles with NFL or NCAA teams focused on quarterback development.
- Media return: A potential comeback to broadcasting, though it would likely require careful brand rehabilitation.
- Publishing or documentaries: Gruden may also consider writing a memoir or participating in sports documentaries that explore his career and coaching philosophy.
Whatever the direction, Gruden’s story is still unfolding.
Conclusion
So, what is Jon Gruden doing now? He remains connected to football through informal consulting, private coaching engagements, and legal proceedings with the NFL. Though no longer in the spotlight, his impact on the game continues to echo in team strategy, quarterback mentoring, and leadership philosophy.
While his career has been shaped by both success and controversy, Gruden is not entirely removed from the sport that defined his life. Whether he returns in a formal capacity or chooses to remain behind the scenes, his legacy in football remains influential—and unfinished.
FAQs
What is Jon Gruden doing now?
Jon Gruden is currently consulting informally with football teams, including occasional quarterback development work, and is involved in an ongoing lawsuit against the NFL.
Is Jon Gruden coaching again?
As of now, he is not coaching a team in any official capacity, but he has participated in advisory roles with NFL teams like the New Orleans Saints.
Why did Jon Gruden resign from the Raiders?
Gruden resigned in 2021 after the release of offensive emails that led to public and league scrutiny.
Did Jon Gruden sue the NFL?
Yes, he filed a lawsuit against the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell, alleging the league intentionally leaked his private emails.
Will Jon Gruden return to the NFL?
It’s uncertain. While he has supporters, any official return would depend on public perception, legal outcomes, and team willingness to take the risk.
Where is Jon Gruden now?
He lives privately with his family and continues to contribute to football in limited, behind-the-scenes capacities.