Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden is preparing for a return to the broadcast booth this preseason. The Super Bowl-winning coach will serve as the play-by-play announcer for one of Tampa Bay’s preseason games, marking another step in his broadcasting comeback.
Judging by Gruden’s recent comments, the opportunity means a great deal to him.
Gruden Eager to Be Back on the Air
During an appearance on 95.7 WDAE, Gruden discussed his upcoming assignment. He also expressed excitement about working alongside former Buccaneers great Ronde Barber, one of the stars from Tampa Bay’s championship team.
Gruden said returning to the booth after so many years away has him energized. He added that his passion for football has never faded.
“I was fired up,” Gruden said. “I had a lot of fun doing it for nine years. I was very fortunate on Monday Night Football, especially the years with Tirico. We had a lot of fun. We took every game like it was a Super Bowl. Took it very seriously, had a lot of fun. So I enjoy the profession. And at this point in my life, I still study football all the time. I’m still a big fan of the Bucs. I live right down the street. I’m really excited about it.”
A New Chapter in Broadcasting
Although Gruden has repeatedly expressed interest in coaching again, NFL teams have yet to bring him back to the sidelines. His ongoing lawsuit against the league has likely complicated those opportunities.
For now, Gruden has shifted his attention to broadcasting. He has indicated that play-by-play work is his focus for the foreseeable future.
Gruden’s Legacy in Tampa Bay
Gruden arrived in Tampa Bay before the 2002 season. He immediately helped transform the franchise into a championship contender.
That season ended with the Buccaneers defeating Gruden’s former team, the Oakland Raiders, in Super Bowl XXXVII. The victory delivered the first Super Bowl championship in franchise history.
Gruden remained Tampa Bay’s head coach through the 2008 season. He was later inducted into the Buccaneers Ring of Honor, removed in 2021, and reinstated last year.
Reuniting With a Buccaneers Legend
Gruden’s return becomes even more notable because he’ll share the booth with Barber. The Hall of Fame cornerback was one of the defensive leaders during Tampa Bay’s championship run.
Barber earned All-Pro honors during the 2002 season. He also dominated throughout the postseason, recording two interceptions, including a pick-six, while defending 10 passes across three playoff games.
The legendary cornerback spent all 16 NFL seasons with the Buccaneers. He retired as one of the greatest defensive players in franchise history before earning induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
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