Chiefs Eye Jon Gruden as Potential Successor to Head Coach Andy Reid

Kansas City, MO – May 17, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs are discreetly planning for a future without Andy Reid, with Jon Gruden emerging as a leading candidate to take over from the iconic coach, sources have confirmed. As Reid, 67, contemplates retirement, the Chiefs’ shortlist also features names like Mike McCarthy and other prominent figures.

Gruden, 61, who led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl victory, offers a dynamic offensive approach. With a career record of 117-112 and recent appearances at Chiefs training camps alongside Reid, his candidacy has sparked curiosity. “Jon’s intensity is unparalleled,” GM Brett Veach remarked, highlighting their 30-year friendship that dates back to their time in Green Bay. Gruden’s experience in the AFC West with the Raiders adds regional expertise, though his 2021 email controversy poses a challenge.

Mike McCarthy, also 61, brings a 147-94 record and a Super Bowl title from his tenure with the Green Bay Packers. After parting ways with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, his play-calling skills could keep Kansas City’s explosive offense thriving. “Mike has a track record of success,” Reid noted, per sources. However, McCarthy’s more traditional approach might not fully align with Patrick Mahomes’ freewheeling style.

Other names in contention include Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, whose creative strategies contributed to three Super Bowl triumphs, and Detroit Lions coordinator Ben Johnson, an emerging talent with a 70% pass-completion offense. Both bring fresh ideas but lack experience as head coaches. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, a Chiefs stalwart with three Super Bowl rings, completes the list, offering continuity and proven leadership.

The Chiefs’ 2025 draft picks—Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith—reflect a focus on youth, but Reid’s potential departure could strain the team’s $12.7 million cap space. With Travis Kelce and Amari Cooper strengthening the lineup, the incoming coach will inherit a formidable squad.

Chiefs Kingdom is abuzz with speculation. As the 2025 Super Bowl approaches, the names of Gruden and McCarthy are stirring discussions, hinting at a daring new chapter for Kansas City’s dynasty.