TAMPA — While enjoying a vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains, Jon Gruden learned he would be honored at Raymond James Stadium again. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced Gruden’s return to their Ring of Honor, four years after his name was removed.
“Some of my best memories were made at Raymond James Stadium with the Bucs,” Gruden shared with the Tampa Bay Times. “It’s a great feeling and an incredible honor.”
The Buccaneers released a statement highlighting Gruden’s significant contributions during his seven seasons as head coach. “Upon further reflection, we’ve decided to reinstate him into the Buccaneers Ring of Honor,” the team stated.
In 2021, Gruden’s name was removed the day after he resigned as head coach of the Raiders amid a controversy over his past emails that included offensive language. At that time, the Bucs expressed that his actions did not align with the organization’s core values.
Gruden recently reunited with the Glazer family, the Buccaneers’ owners, at a memorial for former defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin. They agreed to invite Gruden and his wife to a Bucs game against the San Francisco 49ers on November 10, where Gruden watched from the owners’ suite.
Gruden has kept busy since leaving the Raiders. He has stayed connected to football through his Fired Football Coaches Association office in Tampa and his “Gruden Loves Football” podcast. He shares insights into NFL games and players and recently partnered with Barstool Sports.
Ronde Barber, a Hall of Famer and former player under Gruden, expressed his happiness over the coach’s reinstatement. “Jon’s accomplishments on the field and in the locker room speak for themselves,” Barber said. “He is a true Tampa champion.”
Now at 61, Gruden has often mentioned wanting to coach again. He recently consulted for the Saints, working alongside former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr. On the Buccaneers’ recent performance, he praised their offensive coordinator and expressed admiration for their playmakers.
As Gruden’s name is set to return to the stadium soon, he expressed gratitude for the honor. “It’s a great honor,” he said, “and I’m very appreciative.”
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