Former NFL coach Jon Gruden has expressed eagerness for the truth to come out, following a Nevada Supreme Court ruling that allows his high-profile lawsuit against the NFL to proceed in court instead of arbitration. The court’s decision, which was 5-2, determined that the arbitration clause in the NFL Constitution is unconscionable and does not apply to Gruden as a former employee. Gruden, who was released by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, claims that the league orchestrated a malicious campaign to destroy his career by leaking emails containing racist, sexist, and homophobic language. The lawsuit, filed in 2021, alleges that the NFL’s actions disrupted the Raiders’ season, which was leading the division at the time. Gruden has also expressed hope for a potential return to the NFL in July, stating his intention to make a comeback and continue coaching.
Gruden’s lawyers have applauded the court’s ruling, stating that it not only vindicates his reputation but also clears the way to hold the NFL accountable for its unfair arbitration process. Adam Hosmer-Henner of McDonald Carano LLP told Pro Football Talk that the decision is a significant victory for all employees facing such an employer’s unfair process. Gruden told ESPN that the release of the emails affected the Raiders’ season, claiming that the league’s actions disrupted the entire season. He stated, “What happened wasn’t right, and I’m glad the court didn’t let the NFL cover it up.”
Gruden has also expressed his desire to return to the NFL, stating that he is working hard to get another shot. He told reporters via the Detroit Free Press, “I’m about to make a comeback. I’m working hard to maybe get one more shot, but hopefully some of these guys that fell off my branch, if you say it that way, maybe they can hire me cause I’m looking for a job.” Despite not being officially on a team, Gruden has indicated that he is still coaching, mentioning private assignments and wearing gear while watching games without revealing whom he is supporting.