Jon Gruden’s court fight with NFL moves toward trial

In a significant legal setback for the NFL, the Nevada Supreme Court has refused to reconsider its decision, paving the way for Jon Gruden’s lawsuit against the league to proceed in court.

This ruling marks a critical step in Gruden’s ongoing battle with the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell, following a series of court decisions favoring the former coach, as Fox News reports.

The legal dispute began in 2021 when Gruden filed a lawsuit against the NFL and Goodell after stepping down from his role as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Legal Clash Over Leaked Emails Intensifies

His resignation came after emails containing inappropriate content were leaked, which Gruden claims were part of a deliberate effort by the league to harm his career.

In his suit, Gruden seeks damages for the loss of career opportunities and endorsements, alleging the NFL orchestrated the damaging leak.

The case gained traction when a Las Vegas judge in 2022 denied the NFL’s motions to dismiss the lawsuit or force it into arbitration.

Nevada Court Rejects NFL’s Arbitration Push

Following this, the NFL appealed to the Nevada Supreme Court, hoping to have the case moved to a private arbitration process as outlined in the league’s constitution.

In August, however, the Nevada Supreme Court ruled 5-2 that the arbitration clause was unfair and did not apply to Gruden since he was no longer an employee.

The court described the clause as “unconscionable and does not apply to Gruden as a former employee,” a significant blow to the NFL’s defense strategy.

Unanimous Decision Strengthens Gruden’s Position

On a recent Thursday, the Nevada Supreme Court further solidified its stance by denying the NFL’s request for a rehearing with a unanimous 7-0 vote.

This latest decision ensures that Gruden’s case will continue in a public courtroom rather than a closed arbitration setting.

Reports from ESPN indicate that the NFL is now contemplating taking the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court for a final appeal.

Gruden’s Career and Future Aspirations

During his tenure with the Raiders, Gruden guided the team through its relocation from Oakland to Las Vegas before the controversy forced his exit.

Since then, he has taken on various roles, including consulting for the New Orleans Saints, joining “Barstool Sports,” and hosting a quarterback training class.

He was also reinstated to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Ring of Honor, marking a nod to his past achievements despite the ongoing legal battle.

Coach’s Determination to Return Persists

Gruden has openly expressed his desire to return to coaching, even visiting the Detroit Lions to explore potential opportunities.

In July, he shared his enthusiasm, saying, “Hopefully I’m not done. I’m about to make a comeback.”

He added, “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.”

Passion for Coaching Remains Unshaken

Gruden’s passion for the game remains evident as he continues to engage with football in unofficial capacities.

He emphasized his commitment, stating, “I don’t care if I coach at Jones Junior High. I’m going to coach again.”

He further noted, “I’m still coaching. I’m just not on a team officially, but I do have some private assignments I work on, and I wear some gear when I’m watching the games that nobody knows about who I’m pulling for.”

Uncertainty Looms Over NFL’s Next Move

As the legal proceedings move forward, the possibility of a trial looms larger.