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Jon Gruden Apparently Won’t Get Browns Ownership Stake to Coach University of Tennessee Despite Juicy Rumor

Jon Gruden‘s name has been tossed around as a coaching candidate since he was fired by the Buccaneers following the 2008 season. But ownership?

Well, chalk it up as a juicy rumor. WREG-TV in Memphis, Tenn., reported Tuesday night that Gruden has an offer on the table to become the next head coach of the University of Tennessee, and that if he took the job, he would also get an ownership stake in the Cleveland Browns. Both Gruden and the Browns have denied the report, however.

The link between the University of Tennessee and the Cleveland Browns stems from Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, who attended Tennessee and is a booster for the program. The Browns organization was quick to point out in a statement, however, that Haslam is not playing a role in the school’s search for a coach.

“Jimmy Haslam has no involvement in the University of Tennessee head coaching search, and the report that Jon Gruden would potentially have an ownership stake in the Browns is completely erroneous,” Browns vice president of media relations Neil Gulkis said in the statement.

While the report of Gruden getting an ownership stake is certainly unique, it’s no surprise that his name came up in regards to a high profile coaching position, even if the gig is at the college level. Gruden’s name will also continue to be tossed around any time an NFL opening becomes available, although the former Bucs and Raiders head man seems pretty content in his current analyst position.

“I’m just excited about Monday Night Football,” Gruden said. “I like what I’m doing. I’m just trying to hang on to the job that I have.”

Gruden will probably have no trouble hanging on to the MNF gig, as he’s brought plenty of personality and expert analysis during his short time in the booth — even if he is a little bit wacky.

Click here to see why Gruden would be a perfect fit for the University of Tennessee >>

Thumbnail photo via Facebook/Bring Jon Gruden to Tennessee

Photo of the Day

Speaking of coaching availabilities, how much longer will this guy have a job?

Quote of the Day

It’s unfortunate what the media can do to judge before the facts are out there. It’s hard to see, but it’s a hard truth, and it’s part of life. I’m happy. I’m happily married. I would never stand for domestic violence. I’ve never been hit in my life.
–Hope Solo, responding to the investigation of her new husband, Jerramy Stevens, for domestic violence.

Tweet of the Day

More money is better than less money. So yes.

My staff and I will argue for three hours–does 1 million dollars change your life. Hell yes, I say–they ALL disagree.

— Colin Cowherd (@ESPN_Colin) November 28, 2012

Video of the Day

Nice.