Andy Reid Explains Reason for Controversial Guest at Chiefs Camp

The Chiefs invited disgraced former Raiders head coach Jon Gruden to practice on Sunday and Andy Reid finally explained why he brought his former rival into the building.

Gruden in Chiefs gear roaming the sidelines was a peculiar sight, especially given the events that led to his eventual firing. He resigned after just five weeks in 2021, but Reid noted that he and Gruden "go way back" and he believes his influence could be a positive.

Overseeing the franchise during its transition from Oakland to Las Vegas, Gruden certainly has plenty of experience with the game. However, reasonable minds can disagree about whether his presence actually brings any value.

Andy Reid Explains Why He Invited Jon Gruden to Chiefs Practice

Reid and Gruden were coordinators together in the Green Bay Packers organization in the 1990s and while Gruden is a Super Bowl champion, his coaching record is spotty at best.

"He loves football," said Reid. "He and I go way back 30 years, so we’ve known each other for a long time...It’s good to get him up here. He’s always had good input on things. He’s very smart. He’s a great football coach."

Always complimentary, Reid spoke highly of Gruden and noted he brings great energy. Enthusiasm has a value, yet Reid's decision to invite the disgraced former rival is curious nonetheless. With three Super Bowl wins in the last five years, the Chiefs had been doing just fine without Gruden's input thus far.

Ultimately, this doesn't truly matter. Reid took an opportunity to invite an old friend and catch up, likely not even discussing much strategy. For Kansas City's sake, here's hoping Reid stays far away from Gruden's advice both on and off the field.

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