National Football League

Jay Gruden to lead Bengals offense

Published Feb. 3, 2011 7:56 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Cincinnati Bengals have hired Arena Football League veteran Jay Gruden as their offensive coordinator.

The 43-year-old Gruden is the younger brother of former NFL coach Jon Gruden. He was an assistant for seven years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including for his brother's 2002 season Super Bowl champions. Jay Gruden played and coached in the Arena Football League for 18 seasons.

The Bengals moved quickly after Monday's firing of longtime offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski, following a 4-12 season and quarterback Carson Palmer's request to be traded.

Coach Marvin Lewis said Thursday that Gruden will help bring energy and an attacking style to the offense. The Tiffin, Ohio, native played quarterback for four seasons at Louisville and last year coached the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League.