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John Gruden Returns to NFL in Surprising Staff Role

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, January 27th 2026 at 21:09 GMT by Newsweek
      Locales: Florida, Nevada, Tennessee, UNITED STATES

Wednesday, January 28th, 2026 - Former Super Bowl-winning coach John Gruden is making a return to the National Football League, but in a significantly different capacity than many anticipated. Sources confirm that Gruden turned down a head coaching offer from an unnamed NFL team this past offseason to accept a position on a coaching staff, marking a surprising turn after a period of public and professional exile.

The news, initially reported by ESPN, raises questions about Gruden's priorities and the evolving landscape of second chances in professional sports. While the specifics of the team and Gruden's exact role remain closely guarded, the decision signals a clear preference for a less prominent, more supportive role at this stage of his career. It's a marked contrast to the high-pressure environment of being a head coach, suggesting Gruden may be seeking a degree of redemption and a rebuild of trust before potentially re-entering the top tier of NFL leadership.

Gruden's departure from the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 was swift and dramatic. The release of decades-old emails containing offensive language - including racist and homophobic slurs - forced him to resign amid widespread condemnation. The fallout was significant, impacting not only his career but also the Raiders organization and prompting league-wide discussions about accountability and internal communication policies. Gruden issued a public apology at the time, acknowledging the harmful nature of the language used, but the damage to his reputation proved extensive.

For the past few seasons, Gruden has remained largely absent from the NFL landscape, leaving many to speculate about his future. The fact that he received a head coaching offer underscores his continued respect within coaching circles, despite the controversy. However, his choice to decline that offer and instead join a staff suggests a more nuanced calculation.

Experts believe several factors likely influenced Gruden's decision. The head coaching role would have instantly placed him back under intense scrutiny, demanding immediate results and a constant defense of his past actions. A position on a coaching staff, however, allows him to quietly re-integrate into the league, demonstrate a commitment to learning and growth, and potentially rebuild relationships with players, coaches, and the public. It's a strategic move that prioritizes long-term rehabilitation over immediate power.

This situation also speaks to a growing trend within the NFL: the increasing importance of mentorship and collaborative coaching. Many successful head coaches now rely heavily on strong assistant coaches, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and shared expertise. Gruden, known for his meticulous preparation and offensive acumen, could become a valuable asset in this capacity, providing guidance to younger coaches and contributing to a team's overall strategy.

Financial details of both the head coaching offer and his current staff position have not been released. It is unclear if a significant pay cut factored into his decision. While Gruden was previously one of the league's highest-paid coaches, accepting a staff role likely comes with a substantial reduction in salary, further indicating his focus is not solely on financial gain.

The NFL world will be watching closely to see how Gruden's return unfolds. Can he successfully navigate the complexities of a subordinate role after years of being in charge? Will fans and the media embrace his attempted comeback? The answers to these questions will not only shape Gruden's future but also offer valuable insights into the evolving standards of accountability and redemption within professional sports. His journey represents a fascinating case study in second chances, and its outcome will undoubtedly influence how the league addresses similar situations in the future.