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Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden was honored with an induction into the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame on Sunday night. During an interview with Al.com, Gruden reflected on his tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders and explained why he frequently selected players from the University of Alabama.

He acknowledged that timing sometimes plays a role in decision-making but praised Alabama’s rise over the past two decades. “Let’s be honest,” Gruden said, “when that guy—what do they call him, Saban?—showed up in Tuscaloosa, everything changed.”

Gruden also cited Alabama’s playing style and player development as key factors in his draft choices. “Their offensive and defensive systems, the way they practiced—it all elevated the level of talent coming out of there,” he said.

Among the Crimson Tide players drafted during Gruden’s time in Las Vegas were Alex Leatherwood, Henry Ruggs III, and Josh Jacobs.

His admiration for Alabama’s program is notable, especially considering his legacy as the Super Bowl-winning coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003.