Raiders Rumors: Jon Gruden's Scouting Methods Fueling Frustration, Divide

There is a growing "disconnect" in Oakland between head coach Jon Gruden and the team's front office—including general manager Reggie McKenzie—regarding personnel decisions, per Ian Rapoport of NFL.com:

"According to sources, Gruden essentially has his own staff that helps him judge talent and make decisions—most notably confidant and Director of Football Research Dave Razzano—along with a slew of interns and assistants.

"Gruden had his own draft board and has his own pro board, separate from those used by others in the organization."

Rapoport added that there isn't any animosity between Gruden and McKenzie, though "it's clear to many of the scouts who signed on to work for McKenzie that Gruden is listening mostly to those in his circle."

The Raiders have had an interesting offseason to say the least, signing Gruden to a 10-year deal worth around $100 million and trading superstar edge-rusher Khalil Mack to the Chicago Bears after the two sides couldn't work out a long-term contract extension.

Mack ended up signing a six-year, $141 million extension in Chicago, and the early returns for the Bears are promising. He has notched eight tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, an interception and a defensive touchdown in two games.

The Raiders, meanwhile, have just two sacks as a team, certainly a contributing factor in their disappointing 0-2 start.

Where the team's personnel decisions will play the biggest factor, however, will be in free agency and the draft. The fact that there are grumblings so early in Gruden's tenure isn't a promising sign.

As Rapoport wrote: "The factions do come together for meetings, and everyone is eventually heard. But several people say they are frustrated at not being listened to, adding that they've never seen a divided setup quite like this one."

Change could be coming.

Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reported last week that "numerous general managers, personnel directors and NFL officials would be shocked if there are not new decision-makers in place in Oakland well before the 2019 draft," adding, "It's being viewed as a near certainty in industry circles" that the team will make adjustments to its front office.

In other words, McKenzie's time as general manager may be coming to a close.

It's been a rocky start to the Gruden era in Oakland. As the old adage goes, a house divided cannot stand.