Gruden secures favorable judgment in Nevada courtroom over lawsuit with NFL
In a significant development, former NFL head coach Jon Gruden is actively preparing for a return to the coaching world, following a Supreme Court ruling that vindicates his reputation and clears the way for him to seek full justice.
Gruden, who parted ways with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 amidst offensive email scandals, has expressed a strong desire to coach again, either in the NFL or major college football programs. His legal team applauded the Nevada Supreme Court's decision regarding his case against the NFL, with Adam Hosmer-Henner of McDonald Carano LLP stating that the ruling "vindicates Jon Gruden's reputation."
The lawsuit, filed in 2021, alleged a "malicious and orchestrated campaign" that destroyed Gruden's career. The leaked emails, from his time as an ESPN analyst and "Monday Night Football" broadcaster, revealed racist, sexist, and homophobic language. However, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5-2 decision that the arbitration clause in the NFL Constitution is unconscionable and does not apply to Gruden as a former employee.
Gruden has been keeping busy, working with Barstool Sports, analyzing NFL teams and personnel, and making public break-downs of NFL teams. He has also been educating himself on modern college football dynamics, such as the transfer portal, NIL deals, and recruiting strategies, to prepare for a potential move to college football.
Despite not having a current NFL team, Gruden has been spotted studying game film, visiting training camps, and engaging with players and coaches behind the scenes, signalling his readiness to re-enter coaching if the right opportunity arises. His popularity has grown partly due to his social media presence and his time removed from the controversy that led to his resignation.
In a statement, Gruden's lawyers applauded the ruling, stating, "This is a significant victory for Mr. Gruden and for all former employees of the NFL who are subject to the NFL's unfair and unconscionable arbitration clause." The NFL, however, declined to comment on the ruling.
Gruden has not ruled out coaching at any level, including Jones Junior High, if given the opportunity. As of late July 2025, he announced an official decision regarding his NFL coaching career, aligning with his public stance that he is actively pursuing coaching opportunities but has no current NFL head coaching position.
In summary, Jon Gruden is in an active state of preparation and desire to return to coaching either in the NFL as a head coach or in major college football programs. He is recognized as a potential candidate for coaching vacancies but has not yet secured a new coaching role.
Gruden's legal victory enables him to pursue coaching opportunities in both the NFL and major college football, given his strong intent to re-enter the coaching world. Despite his legal battles, he continues to analyze football teams and strategies, preparing for a potential return to American football, either in the NFL or at the collegiate level.
