Jon Gruden Returns To Buccaneers Broadcast Booth

Jon Gruden is set to appear on the air for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ preseason home game on Aug. 22. He will join former Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber in the broadcast booth for the contest against the Kansas City Chiefs. The game will be carried locally on WFLA, giving fans a chance to hear two icons from the franchise’s championship era.

Gruden coached the Buccaneers from 2002 through 2008, guiding the team to its first Super Bowl title in 2002. After stepping down from the head‑coach role, he spent years analyzing games on television, most notably as an ESPN Monday Night Football analyst. He briefly returned to the field with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2018 before moving back to broadcasting.

Ronde Barber spent his entire NFL career in Tampa Bay, earning Hall of Fame honors for his play on the cornerback position. Since retiring, Barber has become a regular voice on Buccaneers preseason telecasts. His familiarity with the team’s history makes him a natural partner for Gruden’s return to TV work.

According to a post by Greg Auman on X, the matchup will feature the two former stars together for the Aug. 22 contest. The preseason game marks a reunion of sorts, bringing together two of the most recognizable figures from the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl‑era roster. Fans can expect plenty of insider insight as Gruden and Barber break down the action live.

Preseason Game Details

• Date: Aug. 22
• Opponent: Kansas City Chiefs
• Location: Tampa Bay Buccaneers home stadium
• Broadcast: WFLA (local TV)
• Broadcaster duo: Jon Gruden and Ronde Barber

The broadcast promises to blend Gruden’s strategic perspective with Barber’s on‑field expertise, giving viewers a unique preview of the upcoming season. This collaboration highlights the Buccaneers’ tradition of featuring legendary personalities in media roles, reinforcing the team’s deep connection to its fan base.