Jon Gruden tried to claim DJ Swearinger after brother Jay cut him
Former Washington defensive back DJ Swearinger was waived on Monday after he publicly criticized the team’s playcalling, but head coach Jay Gruden apparently did not warn his brother Jon about the safety’s antics. And if Jay did, it sounds like Jon ignored it.
Swearinger ended up with the Arizona Cardinals after being placed on waivers, and ESPN’s Field Yates reports that the Oakland Raiders were one of the teams that submitted a claim for him.
Source: the Raiders and Packers both submitted a waiver claim on new Cardinals S D.J. Swearinger. Arizona had top priority based on its 3-12 record.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 26, 2018
Swearinger has 11 interceptions in the past three seasons and has been a productive player, so it’s no surprise multiple teams were interested in him. However, given the circumstances under which he left Washington, it is noteworthy that Jay Gruden’s own brother wanted to add him to his roster.
In addition to blasting defensive coordinator Greg Manusky for not playing zone against Titans backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert on Saturday, Swearinger had been warned about criticizing teammates and coaches but continued to do so. Jon Gruden was apparently willing to take a chance on him because of his talent level, but the Cardinals had a higher waiver priority.
