Jon Gruden Didn’t Hesitate Naming Worst NFL Stadium To Play In

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Spencer Ostrow | Last updated Aug 12, 2025 11:22 PM ET

Jon Gruden spent more than 25 years coaching at both the college and NFL levels, cementing his legacy with a Super Bowl victory in 2003 as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He also had two stints with the Oakland Raiders — now the Las Vegas Raiders — before his departure in 2021.

Since then, Gruden has transitioned into media, joining Barstool Sports as a football analyst and personality. He recently sat down for an interview with sports creator Peighton Tubre and was asked which NFL stadium is the worst to play in.

Gruden was quick to answer the question, naming the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers' SoFi Stadium.

"I hate that new L.A. stadium," Gruden said. "I hate that visitors locker room. What is the name of that?

"SoFi Stadium," Tubre replied.

"I hate that stadium," Gruden added.

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History of SoFi Stadium

SoFi Stadium opened in September 2020, four years after the Rams returned to Los Angeles from St. Louis and three years after the Chargers relocated from San Diego. Construction began in 2016, with the playing field built 100 feet below ground level to comply with FAA height restrictions due to its proximity to LAX.

With an estimated price tag of $5.5 billion, SoFi Stadium holds the title of the most expensive stadium in the world. The next highest is MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which is $2.03 billion and the home of the New York Giants and the New York Jets.

Since opening, SoFi Stadium has played host to a number of marquee events, including Super Bowl LVI, the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship, and the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final. Its packed future schedule features eight matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl LXI, and both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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

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