Former Giants GM Jerry Reese decision request to interview for Raiders job

The Oakland Raiders are in the midst of a rebuilding phase in their first year under head coach Jon Gruden.

This has already seen the firing of longtime general manager Reggie McKenzie, which has put them in the opening market to fill that position. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, this will include one less candidate for the spot.

Former New York Giants GM Jerry Reese turned down the Raiders’ request to interview for their vacant GM job, league sources told ESPN.

The Raiders wanted to talk to Reese, who was fired by the Giants one year ago, but he rebuffed the chance to work hand-in-hand with Oakland head coach Jon Gruden.

The lack of interest from Reese shows that there may be some deeper concerns about the position. Much of this could lie with the Raiders having some internal issues with the amount of control that Gruden may have on the team.

This could set up more potential problems for whoever takes over the position given Gruden’s status with the franchise. He is currently in the first year of his reported 10-year, $100 million that gives him plenty of leeway on how the team should be shaped.

Ultimately, what may have to be made clear to the possible candidates is that their decision making and influence on shaping the roster isn’t impinged by Gruden’s presence. There should be more to come on this front as the Raiders continue their search for the next general manager in the coming weeks.