LUTZ, Fla. — After being ousted from the NFL amid controversy surrounding incendiary emails, former Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden is looking to reignite his coaching career at the college level.

Nearly three years after his resignation, Gruden believes he’s ready to step back onto the sidelines and make an impact in the world of college football.

In a recent exclusive interview with CBS Sports, he opened up about his journey since leaving the Raiders in 2021. Following the exposure of emails filled with racist, anti-gay, and misogynistic comments, Gruden's reputation took a significant hit.

However, he has spent the intervening years focusing on football strategy, studying game footage, and mentoring quarterbacks—both collegians and pros—who seek his guidance.

Gruden's fall from grace stemmed from the surfacing of more than 650,000 emails reviewed during the NFL's investigation into workplace misconduct at Washington's NFL club.

His remarks included derogatory language aimed at Commissioner Roger Goodell and a racially insensitive metaphor for DeMaurice Smith, the executive director of the NFL Players Association.

He seems to be wrestling with his past, notably when asked about remorse for his emails.

Gruden stated, “I'm not even going to get into whether or not... The due process will take care of itself. I haven't had my due process yet.” This insistence on waiting for legal clarity adds a layer of complexity to his potential return to coaching.

Gruden's fame soared during his time as an analyst on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” from 2009 to 2017,

but his subsequent public silence following his resignation only deepened the concern over his prospects for an eventual return to the sport.

Acknowledging his previous actions, he expressed regret and shame about the emails in a public statement back in 2021.

Since then, Gruden has also initiated a lawsuit against the NFL, claiming his emails were unlawfully leaked to the press to orchestrate his departure.

As Gruden contemplates re-entering the coaching ranks, athletic directors maintain a cautious approach.

Some have expressed interest, with one stating anonymously, “If I was in the market right now, would I interview Jon Gruden? Yeah, probably.”

However, the sentiment is mixed, as the fallout from his history creates substantial hesitance among more prominent programs.

Reflecting on the potential risks, one athletic director quipped that Gruden is seen as "untouchable" at schools with higher visibility,

emphasizing the significant scrutiny that would accompany his hiring.

Despite these challenges, Gruden remains enthusiastic about returning to coaching,

citing both a strong familial legacy in college football and a personal desire to develop young talent.

“I know I can help a team, I know I can help young players get better,” he declared.

His ambition suggests he is actively preparing to re-enter the game—immersing himself in both film studies and football theory.

Moreover, his extensive experience lends credence to his ambitions.

Gruden was instrumental in the success of multiple NFL franchises and remains passionate about evolving coaching methodologies,

even expressing a need to adapt to the modern dynamics of college football, which now heavily incorporates the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.

As Gruden continues his focus on potential opportunities, he is honing his skills with NFL and college players.

He recently assisted quarterbacks in drills and discussed coaching philosophies with peers, demonstrating he is not merely biding time but earnestly preparing for a new chapter in his career.

“I'm ready to go if needed,” he confidently stated,

signaling that he's eager to take on new challenges.

Gruden is sincere about his love for the game.

He has launched a YouTube channel, "Gruden Loves Football," showcasing his insights and analyses, which has helped maintain his presence in the football world.

The shadow of his controversial emails looms large over any potential hiring decisions,

but the landscape of college coaching has seen its share of controversial figures receiving second chances.

As athletic directors weigh his candidacy against the backdrop of recent college coaching scandals, it remains to be seen whether Gruden can overcome his past and return to leadership within the sport he loves.

With a storied history in football, an unwavering passion, and a deep understanding of various coaching strategies,

Gruden’s potential comeback is one worth watching. Will he find redemption in college football, or is his past destined to overshadow his future? Stay tuned as this drama unfolds!