As the NFL’s coaching carousel begins to turn, former Super Bowl-winning head coach Jon Gruden is reportedly emerging as a potential candidate for a return to the league. With multiple teams rumored to be evaluating Gruden for potential openings, speculation has naturally shifted to the Dallas Cowboys, a team often associated with splashy moves. But what does Cowboys owner Jerry Jones have to say about the possibility of Gruden joining the team?
Jon Gruden’s Name Resurfaces in NFL Coaching Circles
Earlier this week, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that several NFL teams are conducting “extensive homework” on Gruden as part of their coaching searches. Despite his controversial exit from the Las Vegas Raiders three years ago, Gruden’s extensive coaching experience and Super Bowl victory with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002 have kept his name relevant in coaching discussions.
Gruden, now 61, has also remained visible in football circles. Recently, he signed a multi-year media deal with Barstool Sports, continuing to keep his football acumen in the public eye.
Jerry Jones’ Response to the Rumors
During a Friday interview on Dallas radio station 105.3 The Fan, Jones was asked directly about the possibility of Gruden returning to the NFL, specifically with the Cowboys. In classic Jerry Jones fashion, his response was both candid and cryptic.
“I don’t have any comment here at all,” Jones said. “Seriously, one way or the other. Jon is a friend, but let’s leave it at that.”
While Jones didn’t outright dismiss the idea, his carefully worded response left plenty of room for speculation. Known for making bold decisions and headline-grabbing moves, Jones has previously been linked to Gruden, making this response all the more intriguing.
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A Complicated Past
Gruden’s NFL career hit a significant roadblock in 2021 when he resigned as head coach of the Raiders after leaked emails revealed offensive and inappropriate language. The controversy overshadowed his tenure with the team and cast doubt on whether he would return to coaching.
However, Gruden’s NFL résumé is undeniable. With a career record of 117-112 over 14-plus seasons, including a 5-4 record in the playoffs, Gruden has demonstrated his ability to lead successful teams. His Super Bowl win with the Buccaneers remains a highlight of his coaching legacy, and his experience could appeal to teams looking for a proven leader.
The Cowboys’ Coaching Outlook
Jones’ comments come at a time when the Cowboys’ current head coach, Mike McCarthy, faces uncertainty despite back-to-back playoff appearances. While Jones has publicly supported McCarthy in recent weeks, the Cowboys owner has never shied away from exploring high-profile options if he believes it’s in the team’s best interest.
If McCarthy were to part ways with the team, hiring Gruden would fit Jones’ penchant for making bold, headline-grabbing moves. However, it would also bring significant scrutiny given Gruden’s controversial exit from the Raiders.
Gruden’s Path Forward
For Gruden, a return to the NFL would likely require addressing the fallout from his resignation and rebuilding trust within the league. Teams considering him would have to weigh his coaching pedigree against the potential backlash and public relations challenges that his hiring might bring.
The Bigger Picture
While Jones’ comments don’t confirm any immediate interest in Gruden, they highlight the ongoing intrigue surrounding one of the NFL’s most polarizing figures. As the Cowboys prepare to assess their 2024 season and make decisions about the future, the possibility of Gruden’s return to coaching adds another layer of drama to an already unpredictable offseason.
For now, both Gruden and Jones remain in the spotlight, their names tied together once again by speculation and the allure of what might be.
Whether this potential pairing becomes reality or remains a tantalizing “what if” is a story that will continue to unfold in the coming months.
