Jon Gruden is back, and this time, he's taking his NFL playbook to an entirely different kind of sideline. The former Raiders and Buccaneers head coach, who's been relatively out of sight since his tumultuous departure in 2021, has inked a multi-year deal with Barstool Sports.
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For those who know Gruden's firebrand personality and Barstool's unfiltered approach, this partnership was almost written in the stars.
Gruden's forced exit from the Raiders came after a series of leaked emails spanning 2011 to 2018 surfaced, showcasing offensive language that drew widespread condemnation. The aftermath left Gruden not just out of a job but embroiled in a legal battle with the NFL, one that's still playing out as he alleges a targeted leak campaign meant to take him down.
Yet, even with the shadows of litigation looming, Gruden has been slowly testing the waters—popping up at a Buccaneers game as a guest and making appearances at an NFL training camp over the summer.
Barstool, with its anything-goes brand of sports coverage, is tailor-made for Gruden's return to the limelight. Editorial freedom and a loyal, passionate fanbase could be exactly what he needs to reset his public persona. And make no mistake, Gruden won't just be on the sidelines—he'll be calling the plays with the kind of grit and gusto that made "Gruden's QB Camp" must-see TV.
Does this set the stage for Gruden to plot a return to the coaching ranks? Time will tell. But at 61 and with his tenacity, you'd be hard-pressed to bet against him. One thing's for sure: whether he's breaking down game film or throwing verbal spirals on a podcast, Jon Gruden is ready to make noise again, and Barstool just handed him the megaphone. Buckle up.
