Not many people have defended Jon Gruden across the last week after he resigned from the Las Vegas Raiders due to leaked emails revealing racist, homophobic, and misogynistic comments between 2011 and 2018. But, it appears his former player, Andre Rison, insists that Gruden isn't a bad man or a racist. Via TMZ Sports:
“We all say some things behind closed doors that we regret or we wouldn't say in public. We've all made mistakes. I believe what he said was intended for that person and that person alone.”
Gruden was already in hot water with the Raiders after the racial comments came out involving NFLPA executive president DeMaurice Smith, but once the other emails surfaced, it was essentially game over for him and he had no choice but to quit.
Rison proceeded to say he's never seen any signs of Gruden being a bad man, either, having played for him during the 2000 season. As far as he's concerned, Gruden should be proud of his time as a coach with the Raiders and Bucs:
“You've already given the game some of the best tutelage and leadership you could possibly give. So if you don't ever touch the game again, don't feel some type of way. Go on with your life and enjoy it with the rest of your family.”
It's unlikely we'll ever see Jon Gruden in the league again, but there's no doubt he will learn from his past mistakes.
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