Stanford reportedly eyeing Super Bowl-winning head coach for opening

Jon Gruden’s name has surfaced once again in college football’s coaching carousel. This time he's being linked to Stanford's opening. 

The former NFL head coach, who led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl XXXVII title, has reportedly expressed renewed interest in returning to the sidelines, potentially at the collegiate level.

Gruden has been listed among the early favorites for the Stanford job. Former NFL coach Frank Reich is currently serving as the Cardinal’s interim coach for the 2025 season and remains the frontrunner to keep the role in 2026. 

Sources say Stanford is eyeing John Gruden as a potential future head coach. Lots of money is piled up for the potential hiring.

Gruden recently told Georgia players during an August visit that he’s eager to return to coaching, particularly in college. “I want to coach again,” he said. “I’d die to coach in the SEC. I would love it.”

While Gruden has been most prominently linked to openings at Arkansas and other Power Four programs, Stanford’s need for a permanent head coach could offer a unique opportunity. However, with four SEC jobs open, will Gruden skip over a possible opportunity for one more secure? 

The offensive guru has a national profile that might appeal to a Cardinal administration, including former NFL star QB Andrew Luck, who seek to reenergize its football brand.

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