Former Bengals OC Jay Gruden makes bold pick against brother Jon - Bengals Wire

Former Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden picked Cincinnati to beat Tampa Bay in Week 1, prompting brother Jon Gruden to accuse him of bias.

During a segment posted by Jon Gruden on X, the brothers went back and forth over Sunday’s matchup.

Jon highlighted several of Tampa Bay’s young defenders, including Josiah Trotter, Keionte Scott and Rueben Bain Jr., before Jay identified a weakness he believes Cincinnati can exploit.

“You got no corners. I’m taking the Bengals,” Jay said.

Jay served as the Bengals’ offensive coordinator from 2011 through 2013, helping the franchise reach the playoffs in all three seasons. Cincinnati’s offense climbed to sixth in the NFL in scoring during his final season before he left to become Washington’s head coach.

Jay also pointed to Bengals owner Mike Brown while explaining why he expects a quick start in 2026.

“We gotta start fast this year. When Mike Brown talks, everybody listens,” Jay said. “The Bengals are gonna get after them.”