Jon Gruden, a well-known figure in the world of professional football, was most recently the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. His unexpected resignation in 2021 after a controversial email scandal left fans wondering: what is Jon Gruden doing now? This article provides a detailed insight into his current life, potential career paths, and what the future may hold for this polarizing figure.
Jon Gruden’s Football Legacy
Jon Gruden’s football career spanned decades. Before his coaching stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, he became a household name by leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl victory in 2003. Here is a quick summary of his coaching journey:
| Team | Years Active | Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Oakland Raiders | 1998–2001 | Built a competitive team |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 2002–2008 | Won Super Bowl XXXVII (2003) |
| ESPN Analyst | 2009–2017 | Known for “Gruden’s QB Camp” |
| Las Vegas Raiders | 2018–2021 | Resigned after email controversy |
Jon Gruden’s coaching style was known for its intensity, enthusiasm, and strategic acumen. He was not only a coach but a football enthusiast who was always eager to develop young talent, as seen during his time as an ESPN analyst hosting “Gruden’s QB Camp.”
Controversial Resignation from the NFL
Gruden’s resignation in 2021 was unexpected. Emails from several years ago surfaced, revealing inappropriate language and derogatory remarks. This led to immense pressure from the media and NFL officials, ultimately resulting in his decision to step down from his coaching position. The controversy left his professional future in question.
What is Jon Gruden Doing Now? Current Ventures and Activities
Since his resignation, Jon Gruden has kept a relatively low profile, but there have been several hints about his next moves. While he has not re-entered professional football, he has been involved in different activities and ventures.
Personal Life and Family
Following the scandal, Jon Gruden has been spending more time with his family. He has a wife, Cindy, and three sons—Deuce, Michael, and Jayson. Deuce Gruden, his eldest, currently works as an assistant strength coach for the Raiders. Family life has been a priority for Jon Gruden, who has taken a step back from the limelight to focus on personal matters.
Mentorship and Advisory Roles
Though not formally coaching, Jon Gruden is rumored to be acting as a mentor to some younger coaches and players, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience. In particular, his relationships with former colleagues in the NFL, as well as his connections with college football programs, allow him to stay involved in football on a more informal level.
Speaking Engagements and Public Appearances
Jon Gruden has also made several public appearances, mostly in private settings like charity events and local football clinics. He continues to be a sought-after speaker due to his expertise and engaging personality. While his media appearances have been limited since the scandal, there is speculation that Gruden could make a more significant return to public life in the future.
Real Estate Investments
Aside from his football-related activities, Jon Gruden has shown interest in real estate investments. He reportedly owns several properties across the United States, which he manages privately. This venture allows him to maintain a steady income without the pressure and visibility of a public role.
Could Jon Gruden Return to Coaching?
One of the biggest questions on the minds of football fans is whether Jon Gruden could return to coaching. Several factors will influence this possibility.
Redemption and Public Opinion
Gruden’s return to coaching would depend largely on public opinion and his ability to rehabilitate his image. The NFL, like many other professional sports leagues, values the opinions of fans, sponsors, and partners. Gruden may need to make a public apology or demonstrate his commitment to addressing the controversy that led to his resignation.
Coaching College Football
A potential avenue for Jon Gruden could be college football. With his background in mentoring young athletes and his in-depth knowledge of the game, Gruden could be a strong candidate for coaching at the college level. College football programs may be more willing to offer him an opportunity to return to the sidelines, especially if he continues to repair his public image.
Media Roles: Could He Return to Broadcasting?
Another possibility for Jon Gruden’s future is a return to the media. Before rejoining the Raiders, Gruden had a successful career as an ESPN analyst, where he hosted “Gruden’s QB Camp,” a show that broke down the skills and potential of top quarterback prospects. Fans enjoyed his candid insights and passion for the game. A return to broadcasting might be more viable than returning to the NFL coaching ranks.
Future Prospects for Jon Gruden
Jon Gruden’s future in football or any public-facing role will largely depend on his ability to rebuild his reputation. Several public figures have managed to rehabilitate their image after facing scandals, and Gruden may be no different if he takes the necessary steps to address the situation.
Potential for a New Chapter in College Football
College football could offer Jon Gruden a chance to rebuild his career. Many college programs value the knowledge and experience of former NFL coaches, and Gruden’s history of mentoring quarterbacks makes him a strong candidate for a coaching role at this level.
How Likely is a Media Comeback?
If Gruden decides not to return to coaching, media roles may still be available. The sports media landscape is constantly evolving, and fans remain interested in hearing Gruden’s insights into the game. Whether through podcasting, television, or digital platforms, Jon Gruden’s opinions on football could still garner attention.
Exploring Business Opportunities
Beyond football, Gruden might continue expanding his business ventures, particularly in real estate. With several properties under his belt, he could focus on becoming a more serious player in this field. His ability to pivot from football to entrepreneurship could open new opportunities for him.
Conclusion
Jon Gruden’s departure from the NFL was both sudden and controversial, leaving many to wonder what his future holds. While he has remained largely out of the public eye, it is clear that he is exploring new ventures and spending more time with his family. Though his path back to professional football is uncertain, it’s possible that he could return through college coaching or media roles.
For now, Jon Gruden appears to be focused on personal and business matters, but his enduring passion for football suggests that we may not have seen the last of him on the sidelines or in the broadcast booth. Only time will tell if Gruden can make a full comeback, but for now, he remains a figure of intrigue in the world of football.
FAQs About Jon Gruden’s Current Life and Future
Is Jon Gruden Involved in Football?
While Jon Gruden is not officially coaching any team, he remains involved in football through mentorship and advisory roles. He is still highly respected for his football acumen and has maintained contact with NFL and college coaches, sharing his knowledge behind the scenes.
What Does Jon Gruden Do for a Living?
Currently, Jon Gruden is involved in several ventures, including public speaking, mentorship, and real estate investments. He is reportedly managing his properties and making appearances at private events.
Could Jon Gruden Return to the NFL?
It’s possible but unlikely in the near future. Gruden’s return to the NFL would depend on the public’s willingness to forgive the past controversy and whether any teams are willing to take a risk by hiring him. A more plausible return could be through college football or media roles.
Where is Jon Gruden Living Now?
Jon Gruden currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has a strong connection to the area due to his former role with the Las Vegas Raiders. He also owns other properties in different states as part of his real estate portfolio.
How Has Jon Gruden Handled the Scandal?
Since his resignation, Jon Gruden has largely stayed out of the public eye. He has focused on his personal life and business ventures. Gruden has not made any significant public statements about the controversy but has appeared at some private events.