The New York Jets face a pivotal offseason as they look to address their coaching vacancy which will surely shape the franchise’s immediate future.
Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich is currently at the helm, but with just one victory under his leadership, the team is widely expected to explore external options for a permanent head coach.
Complicating matters, the Jets’ long-term commitment to quarterback Aaron Rodgers remains uncertain.
While some speculate that the team may part ways with the future Hall of Famer, others believe New York could opt to “run it back” for another season with Rodgers.
Amid this speculation, future Hall of Famer Rob Gronkowski has offered a surprising suggestion for the Jets’ coaching search: Jon Gruden.
Appearing on Up and Adams with Kay Adams, Gronkowski praised Gruden’s passion for the game and proposed that he could be a strong pairing with Rodgers.
“He brings that passion. He loves the game of football. Just loves the energy that football brings to the table,” Gronkowski said.
“Jon Gruden loves a nice, solid quarterback … That would be the fit. I would like to see that happen. That’s how Aaron Rodgers stays with the Jets.”
Gruden, a veteran head coach with a Super Bowl win to his name, has remained a controversial figure.
His tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders ended in scandal when emails containing controversial language were leaked out.
Gruden resigned shortly after the revelations and has since kept a low profile in football circles, most recently signing a three-year deal with Barstool Sports that allows for a potential return to coaching.
On the field, Gruden’s track record as an offensive mind is well-regarded.
Over his NFL coaching career, he compiled a 117-112 record and led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl title in the 2002 season.
As Gronkowski alluded to, it’s a near-impossible task to find a single person walking this planet who loves football as much as Gruden.
Despite his ongoing lawsuit against the NFL, Gruden is reportedly extremely eager to get back into coaching.
Of course, there are many who believe that this will be Rodgers’ final season with the Jets.
The four-time MVP told Pat McAfee that he’s not even sure he wants to play next season. He did state that if he does wish to continue, Gang Green would be his first option.
But will owner Woody Johnson and the powers that be even want him back???
Either way, with or without Rodgers, Gruden would be an extremely intriguing choice as next head coach.
What are your thoughts on the Jets possibly pursuing Gruden???