The Oakland Raiders thought they had a chance to return to glory by hiring former head coach Jon Gruden back to the same position.
Though the Raiders are 0-2 under him so far, there might be more trouble than just on the field.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that Gruden has what amounts to a staff of mostly interns and assistants to guide him in making personnel decisions, separate from Oakland’s front office. Gruden’s staff is headed by Dave Razzano, the Raiders’ director of football research.
Gruden gets along fine with general manager Reggie McKenzie, Rapoport said, but Gruden ultimately listens to his inner circle, not to “McKenzie’s guys.”
Gruden has been hounded for the Raiders’ decision to trade away linebacker Khalil Mack to the Bears just before the season started because Mack was holding out for a contract extension.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.