Former Las Vegas Raiders coach Jon Gruden’s lawsuit against the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell has hit a roadblock. Gruden’s lawsuit, filed after his resignation from the Raiders, alleged that the league ruined his reputation by leaking emails containing insensitive language. However, a recent court decision has ruled that the case must go to arbitration, which could potentially be overseen by Goodell himself.
Gruden’s lawyers had argued that Goodell, as a defendant in the case, should not be involved in the arbitration process. While the decision on whether Goodell or a third-party arbitrator will preside over the case is yet to be made, the potential involvement of Goodell has been described as ‘outrageous’ by one of the justices.
The lawsuit stems from Gruden’s resignation in November 2021, following the publication of emails he sent between 2011 and 2018. The emails, sent while Gruden was at ESPN, contained racist, sexist, and homophobic language. Gruden is seeking monetary damages, claiming that the selective disclosure of his emails destroyed his career and endorsement contracts.
Allegations of Gruden’s use of insensitive language first surfaced in 2021, when it was revealed that he had referred to NFL Players Association chief DeMaurice Smith as having “lips the size of Michelin tires” and later as “Dumboriss Smith.” In another message, Gruden used a homophobic term to describe Goodell.
These messages were uncovered during an NFL investigation into sexual harassment allegations against the Washington Commanders, then known as the Redskins. The investigation resulted in a $10 million fine, but specific allegations were never made public by Goodell, citing privacy concerns.
According to sources, Gruden’s resignation may have been collateral damage in a larger scheme by Commanders owner Dan Snyder to deflect blame onto former team executive Bruce Allen. Snyder, with the help of his law firm and Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, allegedly leaked Gruden’s emails to gain favor with Goodell and deflect attention from the sexual harassment claims against himself and the team.
While the legal battle continues, the case has raised questions about the integrity of the arbitration process and the potential conflict of interest if Goodell is involved. With Gruden seeking to restore his reputation and the NFL defending its handling of the situation, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for both parties.
Following his resignation, Gruden sued the NFL, claiming they ruined his reputation.
Four unnamed team owners told ESPN that they believe Goodell was involved with the leak, while Snyder has also been accused of sharing the emails.
Gruden referred to the NFLPA chief as ‘Dumboriss Smith’ and made insensitive comments about his physical appearance.
Roc Nation exec Desiree Perez has been linked to the controversy, working with Commanders owner Dan Snyder.
