The NFL is seeing one of their former head coaches get mentioned for the Arkansas Razorbacks job. The news even sounded like a good idea to hall of fame NFL quarterback Brett Favre.
Jon Gruden, the former NFL head coach, is again being linked to college coaching, and his own words suggest he’s very serious about a comeback—especially within the SEC.
Gruden’s Public Comments: “I’d Die to Coach in the SEC”
Nov 18, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks helmet during the game against the FIU Panthers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas won 44-20. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 18, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks helmet during the game against the FIU Panthers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas won 44-20. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Gruden has made no secret of his strong desire to return to coaching. According to Awful Announcing, he told Georgia players:
“I want to coach again. I’d die to coach in the SEC.”
He continued, highlighting his passion for the game:
“I absolutely love football … it’s pretty much all I have. … I’ve got a server … I just put a lot of money into a server that collects all the film and allows me to study them. Who knows what will happen, but I’m preparing myself as always to coach. … Behind the scenes, we’re getting plenty of football. I promise you.”
These remarks show Gruden isn’t just fantasizing about a return — he’s actively preparing.
Brett Favre Makes His Case: Gruden Is a “Perfect Fit” for Arkansas
Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon Gruden reacts against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports NFL
Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon Gruden reacts against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Gruden also has strong support from Hall of Famer Brett Favre, who recently voiced his backing via social media. Favre praised Gruden’s football intellect:
“I’ve always said Jon Gruden is one of the sharpest minds in football,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Favre went on:
“His energy, passion, and love for the game are a perfect fit for the SEC … Wouldn’t be surprised to see him land somewhere like Arkansas. I could see Gruden being a spark for that program.”
That high-profile endorsement has fueled speculation that Gruden could be a serious candidate for the Arkansas Razorbacks’ head coaching job, a position currently drawing national attention.
What It All Means
Gruden is not just talking — his comments suggest a real commitment to returning, particularly to the college game. His emphasis on studying film and staying ready indicates more than a media play.
Favre’s backing adds serious weight. As a legendary quarterback who played under Gruden early in his career, Favre’s “spark for that program” phrasing could influence Arkansas’ decision-makers and donors.
The SEC angle is central. Gruden’s repeated reference to the SEC — combined with Favre’s SEC endorsement — aligns with the idea that he sees his return at one of college football’s biggest stages.
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