Jon Gruden Returns to Football with Nashville Kats in Arena Football One League

Jon Gruden Returns to Football with Nashville Kats in Arena Football One League

Jon Gruden is making his return to professional football, this time not in the NFL. The former head coach is joining the Nashville Kats as part of the ownership group in the Arena Football One League.

Gruden will not assume the role of head coach. Instead, the team has clarified that he will serve in consulting and advisory roles across various facets of the team’s football and business operations.

Joining Gruden in the ownership group is Jeff Fisher, a former head coach of both the Tennessee Titans and the Los Angeles Rams. Fisher also holds the position of commissioner for the league and serves as president of the Nashville Kats.

In a statement expressing his enthusiasm, Gruden said, “I have been a fan of indoor football for a long time and jumped at the opportunity to be involved with Jeff and the Nashville Kats as part of the ownership group. I have so much respect for what Jeff has done over his career and continues to do with the Nashville Kats and as commissioner of AF1. I’m excited to be part of the team.”

A Turbulent Departure from the NFL

Gruden’s absence from a professional football team has lasted since he resigned as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders during the turbulent 2021 season. His departure was closely tied to a series of controversial emails he sent prior to his hiring, which included comments that were widely criticized as anti-gay, racist, and misogynistic.

In 2023, Gruden held an informal advisory role with the New Orleans Saints, though he was not officially part of the coaching staff. His resignation from the Raiders led him to file a lawsuit against the NFL, citing contract interference and conspiracy. However, a three-justice panel from the Nevada Supreme Court sided predominantly with the NFL, with only one justice supporting Gruden’s stance. He has since appealed the decision, and a full review by a seven-member court is scheduled for a later date.

Football Legacy and Future Endeavors

While Jon Gruden is a prominent figure in NFL history, it is noteworthy that he is not the only member of his family with a rich football legacy. His younger brother, Jay Gruden, has a distinguished background in the Arena Football League, where he won four championships as a player and two as a coach before transitioning to the NFL.

Since stepping down from his role with the Raiders, Gruden kept close ties with the football community. He notably joined Barstool Sports to lend his expertise to the sports media company, staying engaged in discussions around the game and its developments.

A New Chapter in Professional Football

With his recent appointment as a part-owner of the Nashville Kats, Gruden finds himself once again deeply rooted in the sport. The opportunity to be involved with a professional team as an owner allows him to contribute his extensive experience and knowledge to a new league format.

Gruden’s re-entry into football comes amidst a backdrop of significant personal and professional challenges. However, his passion for the game remains evident. His engagement with the Kats signifies a willingness to help shape the future of the franchise while also giving himself a fresh start in the football world.

As the Nashville Kats prepare for their next season, Gruden’s role may influence team strategy and operational direction. Fans and observers of the sport will be keen to see how his experience affects the team’s performance and presence in the league.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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