As Steelers Nation continues to clamor for the removal of offensive coordinator Matt Canada, the burning question on everyone’s mind is: Who would step in to fill the void?
Many Steelers fans would simply answer: “Anybody BUT Canada!”
Some have even suggested that their legendary quarterback Big Ben Roethlisberger should leave his man cave and throw on the headset.
However, long-time Steelers reporter Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently weighed in on this pressing issue, suggesting an extremely interesting name.
When asked about potential candidates for Canada’s replacement, Dulac stated: “It’s way too early to speculate. But a good choice might be a Mike Tomlin friend – Jon Gruden.”
Steelers insider throws out the name Jon Gruden as a Matt Canada replacement. Wow. pic.twitter.com/5r8azGOmZr
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) October 11, 2023
The mention of Gruden raises eyebrows as well as significant intrigue.
Gruden is currently involved in legal action against the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell over the leaked emails controversy that has essentially blacklisted him from the league.
Tomlin has a history with Gruden, having worked under him during their time in Tampa Bay before transitioning to the role of Minnesota’s defensive coordinator in 2006.
A year later, Tomlin was appointed head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gruden, who resigned as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders under pressure two years ago, has seen a mild resurgence in his career this year by providing consultation services to the New Orleans Saints.
The Saints faced no significant backlash from the league regarding their association with Gruden.
Hell to the Fu** Yeah get him and his brother in Pittsburgh 🏈🏈
— 𝕻𝖊𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖇𝖚𝖎𝖑𝖙 𝕻𝖊𝖙𝖊 (@Peterbuilt_Pete) October 6, 2023
The question of whether the NFL would be comfortable with the Steelers hiring Gruden as their offensive coordinator remains unknown.
People have varying opinions on Gruden … But the one thing most can agree on is he is one hell of a football coach.
What do you think of the possibility of the Steelers bringing Gruden onboard?
What is your take on the whole scandal involving him?