Not 24 hours ago Scott Winter reported on informal talks starting between Raiders’ owner Mark Davis and current ESPN analyst Jon Gruden. While the “Grumor” Mill frequently turns in Raider Nation come December, it would appear this time the reports have real weight to them.
This evening ESPN’s Chris Mortensen and Adam Schefter reported that the “Grumors” are not only true but that the Raiders are prepared to throw in a rather large bone to lure the former head coach out of the booth. That bone is a piece of the Raiders ownership itself.
Raiders preparing to pursue Jon Gruden, per @mortreport and me…. https://t.co/A0U7LgV5VQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2017
The timing of the situation differs from the last time Gruden was offered the gig. The former head coach was offered a stake in the Silver and black just a few years ago but Gruden had just inked a 5-year $6.5 million extension to remain on Monday Night Football in 2015 which made the courtship unlikely.
Now, with Black Monday looming just around the corner, changes might come given the massive disappointment that was the 2017 NFL season. All of this combined with Oakland’s polarizing love affair with the grimacing baby-faced film junkie has the Nation buzzing once again and the timing appears to be more favorable for both sides.
With a move to Las Vegas looming in the near future, Mark Davis would love nothing more than to make a big splash and walk into “Sin City” with a winning organization. Furthermore, Gruden’s celebrity would place the Silver and Black directly in the media limelight–the good, the bad, and everything that comes with it.
Not everyone is in agreement on the validity of the reports or the potential benefits of Chucky’s return. That said, Gruden returning to the field is an exciting prospect no matter which side of the fence you are on.
All depends on where the leak is coming from. If it’s the Raiders, I’d buy it (but I’m skeptical that’s the case). If it’s Gruden — well, Jon could be telling the truth, but this is the guy who had no problem stoking false Tennessee Grumors for the last two-plus year’s.
— Dieter Kurtenbach (@dkurtenbach) December 31, 2017
There’s no way ESPN would be reporting that ESPN employee Jon Gruden could be coaching the Raiders if it wasn’t real.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 31, 2017Â
Just got off the phone with Jon Gruden about ESPN report. He said, “C’mon man. I’m out with my wife. This is crazy. I was supposed to be going to Tampa last week . . . I’ve got nothing to report.”
— Jerry McDonald (@Jerrymcd) December 31, 2017
Let us know what how you’d feel about the return of the former pillager in the comments below, until then Ramble On!
Written by: Kenny Stapler
For more weekly Oakland Raiders insight and commentary make sure to tune into the Pillaging Podcast (iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher Radio, etc.) with Kenny Stapler and crew.