Jon Gruden Won’t Back Down Over Controversial Political Announcement

Husted introduced Gruden to the crowd, and Gruden spoke about his Ohio roots before endorsing his former teammate.

“I’ll be very brief, but I want to thank everybody for showing up,” Gruden said. “I love you guys. I just came back for one reason and I’m from Ohio. My mom and dad are from Cleveland. I was born in Sandusky and I went to the University of Dayton. And I’m damn proud of it, man!”

Gruden then praised Husted’s football career and work ethic.

“Jon Husted is a lot more than my friend,” Gruden said. “He was a great player.” He pointed to Husted’s 17 interceptions and praised his commitment and mental toughness.

Gruden later urged the crowd to support Husted in the election. He also encouraged people to take part in early voting, which starts Tuesday.

“He will never quit, ever on you or anybody,” Gruden said. “Let’s hear it, for Husted. Right. I’m gonna close with this … Before you know it, last thing I’m gonna say, before you know it, this election is over, yes? It’s over.

He also said, “But what we got to do is we got to do our part. Early voting starts Tuesday. Can we be there or not? Let’s be there! And I know you guys got a lot more friends than I do. Get your friends, and get their friends and their friends, and let’s get Husted back in action. Let’s go!”

Gruden clarified where he stands, and he definitely wasn’t backing down from showing his support or endorsing Husted.