Every NFL offseason brings with it the buzz of potential coaching shifts, and as we look toward the 2026 cycle, one name stands out: Jon Gruden. Love him or loathe him, his past success in the league couldn’t be more relevant, especially when considering the Cleveland Browns as a fitting landing spot for the former Raiders head coach.
While Kevin Stefanski currently leads the Browns, this upcoming season feels like a pivotal one for him. After finishing a tough 3-14, the pressure is firmly on—not just to win, but to instill some confidence back into a fan base hungry for success.
Gruden might be a controversial figure within NFL circles, yet dismissing him outright ignores the reality of his coaching acumen. This isn’t a firm report, but rather a prediction rooted in the dynamics surrounding both Gruden and the Browns.
Cleveland’s ownership, particularly Jimmy Haslam, certainly has a lot to answer for, especially regarding the high-profile acquisition of Deshaun Watson. While this move has provided Stefanski with a grace period for now, his leash is undoubtedly short. If the front office, led by General Manager Andrew Berry, falters in the draft and fails to harness the talent from their picks in 2024, a broader shake-up could be in the cards heading into 2026.
Moreover, Gruden’s Cleveland ties are noteworthy. Hailing from Sandusky, Ohio, he could view a return as a chance to complete his coaching journey in his home state. It would be a fitting narrative, a homecoming for a coach with a storied past, looking to prove himself one last time in the NFL.
There’s certainly been a wave of nostalgia surrounding Gruden, especially highlighted in memorable moments like the impactful intro he delivered on “Hard Knocks.” That sort of energy is hard to ignore, and it speaks volumes about his charisma and connection with the game.
What’s also important to note is that Gruden has expressed his desire to return to coaching, making it clear that he’s looking for another opportunity to step onto the sidelines. While currently producing content with Barstool Sports, his presence in the football conversation continues to grow across various platforms like X, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Engaging with the next crop of talent in unique ways, including relaunching his “QB Class” series, where he evaluates prospects’ football IQ, has reestablished his role as a significant voice in football.
This sort of visibility not only points to his enduring knowledge of the game but also suggests that he could mobilize marketing opportunities while fostering a positive team environment should he find himself in a coaching role again.
Gruden recently expressed gratitude towards the Raiders and acknowledged the impact of his previous tenure. While the fallout from his resignation was tumultuous, it highlighted how a team’s culture can pivot significantly with the right leader at the helm.
As we observe teams that may be in search of a coaching overhaul—like the Raiders just last season—Gruden’s name will surely emerge. If a team like the Indianapolis Colts finds that their current leadership, such as Shane Steichen, isn’t navigating them through rough waters, why not reach out to Gruden? His familiarity with the league and wealth of experience make him an intriguing candidate.
As we gear up for another NFL season, Jon Gruden’s name may resurface more frequently. Whether or not this translates into a coaching gig remains to be seen, but the prospect of his return—the intrigue, the excitement—looks to be anything but out of the question.
