Latest On Jon Gruden, Rams Coaching Vacancy

Though he’s been out of the NFL since 2008, Jon Gruden could “entertain” the notion of accepting the Rams’ head coaching position, some of Gruden’s former colleagues told Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com.Jon Gruden (vertical)

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Several factors could influence Gruden’s willingness to listen to a pitch from the Rams, not least of which is the Los Angeles market and the pocketbook of owner Stan Kroenke, who is likely open to paying Gruden whatever he demands. Additionally, the Rams have talented players on both sides of the ball in the forms of running back Todd Gurley and defensive tackle Aaron Donald, as well as a young quarterback in Jared Goff, whom Gruden has expressed fondness for in the past.

Gruden also has a relationship with Rams COO Kevin Demoff, who was hired to Tampa Bay’s front office when Gruden was the Buccaneers’ head coach, according to Tom Peliserro of USA Today. That familiarity could help lure Gruden to Los Angeles, as could the fact that the Rams don’t intend to make a decision on general manager Les Snead until a new coach is hired, per Peliserro. If Gruden wants to bring in his own personnel executive, he’d likely be allowed to do so.

Gruden, who is still only 52 years old, signed an extension with ESPN in 2014 that keeps him under contract through the 2021 season. However, that deal shouldn’t preclude from exploring NFL opportunities.

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