Jon Gruden is incredible self-aware. Or, wait. It’s the other way around.
Just as he did last season after trading Khalil Mack away and then complaining how hard it is to find pass rushers, Gruden has shown himself to be unaware of how amusing this can be. This time, it revolves around quarterback Derek Carr.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Gruden was asked what strides he wants to see Carr make in Year 2. Gruden’s response was hilarious:
Too late for that, coach.
Remember, last year, Gruden was openly critical of Carr multiple times. He had a huge sideline blowup during which he lambasted Carr during a game. He also took a veiled shot about how getting Amari Cooper going was easier said than done.
All that happened well after Gruden had the following critique to share (in the media) about Carr.
“I thought we were too aggressive,” Gruden said in late September after a rough outing against Miami, via NBC Sports Bay Area. “I think at times he is trying too hard.”
So, the ship has sailed when it comes to not critiquing Carr in the media. But hey, at least Gruden appears to be fully behind his quarterback during OTAs. Hopefully, that remains the case throughout the season.