After nine years as an analyst, Jon Gruden is returning to the sidelines to coach the Oakland Raiders. It’s possible that the man he’s replacing in Oakland — Jack Del Rio — will now become an analyst.
“On the day Gruden was introduced as the Oakland Raiders’ new coach, an NFL industry source told RaidersSnakepit.com that Jack Del Rio, the man Gruden has replaced, could resurface in 2018 in an analyst role,” Bill Williamson of RaidersSnakePit.com noted. “There were no specifics cited, whether Del Rio could be work in a studio or as a color analyst during games. The Del Rio-TV interest is in the exploratory stages and nothing has been set.”
One potential job for Del Rio is Gruden’s old one as lead color commentator on “Monday Night Football.” The obvious problem there would be Del Rio’s lack of experience in broadcasting. But he’s got a good look and has continually been in the NFL as a player or coach since 1985. So, he’s familiar with the game and specifically, the current game.
Of course, as Williamson noted, a return to coaching is also possible for Oakland’s former head coach. One way or another, don’t be surprised if Del Rio is a part of the NFL again in 2018.