Quote:As a player, McCardell spent time in offensive coordinator Jay Gruden’s offense, at least a version of it. In 2002-03, McCardell played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when Jay’s brother, Jon Gruden, was the team’s head coach while Jay, an offensive assistant. When asked about the similarities and the chance to work with Jay again, McCardell lit up.

“Oh it’s been great! I mean, I kind of know this offense pretty well. I’ve been to the Pro Bowl with this offense, so I understand this offense. I can kind of help my guys get through some of the hard parts of this offense. I think Jay has kind of made it a little bit simpler than [Las Vegas Raiders head coach] Jon [Gruden],” he says.

While the offenses are certainly similar, McCardell noted that Jay’s offense features less pre-snap shifts, making it a bit easier outside.

“It’s concept-driven and our guys have picked it up pretty well. I mean, our virtual meetings in the spring were really big for us and we’re fortunate enough [that] we’ve got some smart guys that are picking the offense up.”