Jon Gruden attacks Roger Goodell’s global expansion: “Grow it in the United States”
Jon Gruden has never had a problem speaking his mind. The former NFL head coach, famous for his fiery sideline outbursts during his coaching days, showed that same side again on his podcast, where he blasted the league’s international expansion and insisted that taking games overseas is a major mistake.
During the September 10 episode of the Gruden Family Football Show, a caller challenged Gruden’s opposition to the NFL’s international schedule, pointing out that Red Grange‘s barnstorming tour in the 1920s helped save and legitimize the NFL when professional football was struggling to survive. Gruden, however, didn’t hesitate to respond.
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“I understand that completely. I mean, we’re not going overseas to play home games. I didn’t see Red Grange playing in Australia. And I never saw Ray Nitschke play in London. Okay? So, take that and stick that in your pipe,” Jon Gruden said. “If you want to grow the game, grow it in the United States. We got a lot of kids that aren’t playing football. So, let’s play games where we need to grow the game in our country.”
This is far from the first time Gruden has criticized the NFL’s international strategy. While the league continues expanding its global footprint, he believes the policy comes at the expense of players and coaches.
“I think it’s the worst thing in the history of football,” he said on the Grant & Danny podcast. “You’re so excited for the season to start. The Rams are the favorite to win the Super Bowl. The 49ers are getting (Brock) Purdy back, and maybe (George) Kittle, and they are excited to get going. And then you have to fly on a plane for 17 hours to Australia? You gotta be kidding me. What are they doing?! I mean, who cares about Australian fan support? Don’t they have enough money? It makes me sick! It’s unbelievable! It’s not fair to the players; it’s not fair to the coaches.”
The NFL continues its global expansion
Rather than slowing down, the NFL is doubling down on its international growth strategy. In 2026, the league will stage nine international games, the most in its history, with matchups scheduled in Rio de Janeiro, London, Paris, Munich, and other cities.
Commissioner Roger Goodell has already floated the idea of expanding that number even further in 2027, with the goal of having all 32 franchises play at least one regular-season game outside the United States.
“I think everybody sees the opportunity. During the offseason, I get calls and text messages from our players who are all over the world. This generation thinks globally and understands that these games help strengthen both their personal brands and the NFL’s brand,” Goodell said ahead of the Rams vs. 49ers matchup.