Jon Gruden hasn’t roamed an NFL sideline since his turbulent second stint with the Raiders came to an abrupt end, but that hasn’t quieted his ambitions. The former Super Bowl-winning head coach has made it clear-he wants back in. And while the door to Pittsburgh just closed with the Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy to replace the long-tenured Mike Tomlin, Gruden's name is still circulating in league conversations.
According to multiple sources, the New York Jets recently reached out to Gruden about the possibility of joining Aaron Glenn’s coaching staff. The role?
Offensive coordinator. The response?
A firm no.
That detail, first reported Tuesday by league insider Zack Rosenblatt, adds another layer to the Jets' ongoing search for stability and leadership on the offensive side of the ball. For Gruden, it signals that he’s not jumping at just any opportunity-he’s waiting for the right fit, the right job, and perhaps the right level of control.
Now, let’s be clear: Gruden’s current status in the NFL is complicated. He’s still involved in an ongoing lawsuit against the league, and his name carries baggage from the fallout that led to his resignation in Las Vegas. Even so, the fact that a team like the Jets-who are in desperate need of offensive direction-would reach out speaks to the regard some decision-makers still have for his football mind.
But Gruden turning them down? That’s telling. Whether it’s a reflection of how he views the Jets’ current situation or simply a matter of waiting for a head coaching opportunity, it’s clear he’s not ready to take on a supporting role just yet.
And fans took notice. Social media lit up with reactions, many pointing out the optics of a coach currently suing the NFL declining a coordinator job. It’s not every day you see someone in Gruden’s position pass on a chance to re-enter the league-especially with a team that has talent but is in need of direction.
For the Jets, this is another reminder of the uphill battle ahead. Aaron Glenn, stepping into a head coaching role for the first time, is tasked with building a staff that can turn things around in New York. Missing out on a veteran like Gruden might not be the end of the world, but it underscores the challenge of attracting top-tier coaching talent to a franchise still trying to find its footing.
As for Gruden, his return to the NFL remains a waiting game. He’s clearly keeping his options open, and while the Jets didn’t land him, don’t be surprised if another team comes calling. Whether it's as a head coach or in a high-level offensive role, Gruden’s name isn’t fading from league circles anytime soon.