Jon Gruden is one of the hottest names on the coaching carousel right now and his name has been linked to the now-vacant Tennessee head coaching position. The Grumors have been going wild ever since he was spotted in Knoxville earlier this season and according to a report from AL.com, Gruden has told Tennessee administrators in the past that he would be interested.
Gruden previously told school administrators that Tennessee is one of only three college jobs he'd ever take, according to a source. He's indicated real interest when Tennessee has reached out in the past but couldn't walk away from the lucrative deal he has with ESPN. Gruden is reportedly making at least $6.5 million annually for a job that requires considerably less work than what it'd take to get Tennessee back on top.
The other two jobs are unknown and he has been connected to an NFL return. Right now that could mean a return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or even a move to the Tennessee Titans if the job were to open up. However, the issue has always been convincing him to take on the responsibilities of a coach at any level and give up his pretty comfortable Monday Night Football gig that takes considerably less effort. It also reportedly pays him quite a hefty sum, but Tennessee would reportedly be willing to give him $10 million for his trouble.
Tennessee will likely take its time finding a candidate as the administration will want to make sure they find the replacement. There are going to be some good choices, but patience is going to be key in getting the guy they ultimately want.
