NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans have made significant changes after two disappointing seasons under general manager Ran Carthon, who was recently let go following a lackluster record of 9-25. This decision marks a decisive shift for the Titans, who are in urgent need of revitalization after experiencing three consecutive seasons with losing records, which has led to the dismissal of two general managers and a head coach. With the NFL draft fast approaching on April 24, where they hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick, the team is also in the process of constructing a new $2.2 billion stadium set to open by the 2027 season.
Owner Amy Adams Strunk expressed her dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, noting that just a couple of seasons ago, the Titans enjoyed a successful stretch from 2016 to 2021, accumulating a record of 59-38, which provided them with six consecutive winning seasons. During this timeframe, the franchise secured two AFC South championships and reached the AFC Championship game in January 2020, also achieving the AFC’s top seed in 2021. However, the period since has been challenging, with the Titans relegating to a dismal 16-35 overall record, sharing the third-worst winning percentage in the league at .314.
“Staying the course wasn’t a viable option for us going forward,” Strunk remarked. She previously let go of general manager Jon Robinson in December 2022. The newly appointed general manager will play a critical role in shaping the team’s future, particularly as they determine what to do with their top draft pick. Chad Brinker, who served as president of football operations and was recently tasked with overseeing the search for a new GM, will guide the process while possessing authority over roster decisions, including resolving any disputes.
Despite the team’s struggles, Strunk confirmed that head coach Brian Callahan would remain in his position after a first season filled with challenges. The Titans lost their last six games and finished with a record of 6-11, tying the 2014 season for the most defeats since relocating from Texas to Tennessee in 1997. Historically, the franchise has only managed to secure the No. 1 overall draft pick once during that span, with a previous general manager opting to trade it for multiple selections back in 2016.
Burke Nihill, the Titans’ president and CEO, acknowledged the frustration felt by both fans and ownership alike. He explained that Carthon was initially appointed to collaborate with a seasoned head coach; however, with Vrabel released shortly after the season concluded, the franchise is now in need of a general manager who brings a different set of experiences and skills to the table.
Carthon, who previously held the title of executive vice president, aided in the hiring process of Callahan, who was new to head coaching and responsible for offensive strategies. Under Carthon’s guidance, the Titans attempted to make impactful acquisitions, investing significantly in their roster during an aggressive offseason. They acquired wide receiver Calvin Ridley, running back Tony Pollard, and traded picks for cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, among others, but injuries severely hampered the team’s performance, notably impacting players like center Lloyd Cushenberry.
As Brinker, elevated to president of football operations, stated, the Titans are searching for a general manager with proven scouting abilities and a track record in facilitating successful draft processes for winning teams. The soon-to-be-selected GM will have substantial responsibilities for the team’s roster and coaching staff, highlighting the critical need for cohesive talent development and retention, especially considering that several key players from their successful past have yet to secure contract extensions.
In terms of salary cap management, the Titans find themselves in a favorable position, currently estimated to have around $65 million in cap space, positioning them 10th in the NFL. Combined with their top draft pick, the Titans are set to enter this offseason with considerable flexibility to reshape their team.
Callahan’s primary objective will be to cultivate quarterback Will Levis, who was the team’s only signal-caller under contract for the 2025 season following an injury-impacted debut. With 18 turnovers amid struggles during the previous season, the competition for the starting job is expected to escalate through free agency and the draft.
Before any of these plans can be fully realized, the Titans must fill the general manager position, a role that appears to be attracting impressive candidates already. “Having the first pick is a pivotal moment for us to ensure we make the right decisions. It’s an enticing opportunity for many candidates,” Brinker concluded.
