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Ex-Raiders Head Coach Jon Gruden Returning to Football

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Austin C. Boyd | Last updated May 6, 2025 12:38 PM ET

There was some hype this offseason that Jon Gruden could get back into the NFL. However, no team was willing to bite.

The former Las Vegas Raiders head coach has become a big media personality again following a lucrative deal with Barstool Sports. Despite that, the draw to football is proving to be strong.

He was serving as an advisor for the Milano Seamen of the European League of Football, but that wasn't enough. Arena Football One announced that Gruden will be a "Partner with consulting and advisory roles in all aspects of the team’s football and business operations.”

He's also going to be a part-owner of the Nashville Kats.

Arena Football has had a difficult history filled with multiple bankruptcies, but they're making another attempt at a comeback. Getting a big personality like Gruden involved should be a wise play.

“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,” Gruden said in a statement. “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.”

It seems unlikely that Gruden would consider coaching Arena Football, but nothing can be ruled out if the NFL doesn't come calling. The coach has been honest about wanting another shot on the sideline, but it remains to be seen which league that could happen in.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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