Jon Gruden Denies 'Stupid' Jets Rumors

Former NFL coach shuts down reports of interest from New York team

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:55am

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The New York Jets have had a busy offseason with coaching changes, including the hiring of a new defensive coordinator. However, reports surfaced that the team had reached out to former longtime head coach Jon Gruden, which Gruden has now denied as "stupid" rumors.

Why it matters

The Jets are in the midst of an important offseason as they look to improve their coaching staff and build towards a successful 2026 season. Gruden's denial of any interest from the team helps clarify the situation and puts an end to the speculation.

The details

The Jets have been making several changes to their coaching staff this offseason, including the firing of multiple assistant coaches and the hiring of Brian Duker as the new defensive coordinator. The team has also been searching for a new offensive coordinator, conducting interviews with several candidates. However, reports emerged that the Jets had reached out to former head coach Jon Gruden about a potential role, which Gruden has now strongly denied.

  • On January 30, 2026, reports surfaced that the Jets were planning to fire several assistant coaches.
  • A few days later, the team hired Brian Duker as the new defensive coordinator.
  • On January 30, 2026, Gruden joined a radio show to shut down the "stupid" rumors about the Jets.

The players

Jon Gruden

A former longtime NFL head coach who has denied any interest from the New York Jets about a potential coaching role.

Brian Duker

The new defensive coordinator hired by the New York Jets this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of reports we're not going to get into, as you know. There's a lot of stupid rumors out there. Some of these reports are ridiculous. Let's just say there was never anything from the Jets and I wish them well in their search for a new offensive coordinator.”

— Jon Gruden

What’s next

The Jets will continue their search for a new offensive coordinator, with several candidates already interviewed.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the fluid nature of the NFL offseason, with constant coaching changes and speculation. Gruden's denial of any interest from the Jets helps provide clarity and puts an end to the rumors, allowing the team to focus on their ongoing search for the right offensive coordinator.