Jon Gruden Yearns for SEC Coaching Return
Former Raiders coach expresses strong desire to coach in college football’s top conference.
Jon Gruden, a figure prominently known for his extensive coaching career, has revealed a burning ambition to return to the sidelines, specifically within the demanding landscape of the Southeastern Conference.
Desire to Coach Again
During a recent visit to the Georgia Bulldogs and a consultation with the Jacksonville Jaguars, as documented on his YouTube channel, Gruden made his aspirations clear. He expressed a profound desire to coach again, indicating a deep yearning to be involved in SEC football.
“The only reason I really came here is because I want to coach again. I’m being honest with you. I do not bullsh** either. I want to coach again. I’d die to coach in the SEC. I would love it. I would f***ing love it.”
—Jon Gruden, Media Personality
Gruden acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of the SEC, particularly with the recent additions of Texas and Oklahoma to the conference.
Career Path and Media Ventures
Following his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 due to leaked emails, Gruden served as a consultant for the New Orleans Saints in 2023. His NFL coaching tenure includes eight seasons with the Raiders/Oakland Raiders and seven with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marked by a Super Bowl XXXVII victory. His last college coaching role was as a wide receivers coach at Pittsburgh in 1991.
Since joining Barstool Sports in November 2024, Gruden has cultivated a significant media presence. His YouTube channel, featuring shows like ‘Gruden’s QB Class’ and ‘Inside the FFCA,’ has attracted over 260,000 subscribers, while his TikTok account boasts 401,000 followers.
The SEC’s strength is growing. @JonGruden_ESPN is ready for the challenge. @espn @SECNetwork @SEC pic.twitter.com/w5vQc6p09T
— Barstool SEC (@SecBarstool) May 15, 2024
Looking Ahead
Despite enjoying his media career, Gruden remains focused on a potential return to coaching. His explicit statements suggest a strong willingness to re-enter the football coaching profession.
The landscape of college football coaching salaries continues to climb, with the average Power Five head coach salary exceeding $4 million annually, according to a 2023 report by USA Today. This financial backdrop may influence coaching decisions and opportunities.