NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans are experiencing a season reminiscent of their most challenging performance since the franchise’s relocation from Texas in 1997. However, the current situation is looking even grimmer.
In 2014, under head coach Ken Whisenhunt, the Titans finished a dismal 2-14. If they lose this Sunday against the Houston Texans, they will reach a total of 14 losses this season, which would match the highest number recorded by the franchise, especially notable due to the NFL’s recent transition to a 17-game regular season format. Currently sitting at 3-13, the Titans are struggling mightily.
Controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk dismissed the general manager in December 2022 as the team transitioned from two-time division champions to a series of losses. Following a disappointing 6-11 season, coach Mike Vrabel was also let go in January. Now, Brian Callahan finds himself preparing for the final game of his inaugural season, mired in a five-game losing streak and having won just one game out of the last eight. That lone victory happened against Houston.
The 2014 season granted the Titans the second overall pick in the subsequent NFL draft, from which they selected quarterback Marcus Mariota, who faced benched later for veteran Ryan Tannehill. The pressure has escalated for the organization as the Titans plan to don their Houston Oilers’ throwback jerseys Sunday while hosting the Texans. Additionally, they are marketing personal seat licenses and season tickets for a new $2.2 billion stadium set to open in 2027.
Callahan addressed speculation reported by NFL Network regarding his future, indicating that discussions with Strunk have been constructive. He mentioned ongoing conversations with general manager Ran Carthon and Chad Brinker, the president of football operations.
“I just focus on performing my duties effectively,” Callahan remarked, “and I’ll continue to do so as long as I am welcomed. If someday I’m told my services are no longer needed, then that’s part of the business.”
On the field, the Titans’ defense has been a silver lining. They managed to limit eight opponents to 24 points or less this season, including a tight 20-13 defeat against the Jaguars. Under first-year coordinator Dennard Wilson, the Titans are ranked third in the NFL for yards allowed and second for pass defense, succeeding in keeping 11 opponents under 200 passing yards this season. Thus far, the defense has recorded 17 takeaways, including eight interceptions since Week 12.
Conversely, the offense has been problematic, with the team being blanked in the first half of games and logging six losses by fewer than eight points this season. With the Titans now holding the unfortunate record of leading the NFL in turnovers, Callahan indicated both Mason Rudolph and second-year QB Will Levis will feature in the upcoming game, with a starting decision to be made later this week.
In a close match recently, the Titans missed an opportunity to force overtime or secure a win, failing to connect on key passes.
On a positive note, running back Tyjae Spears had a standout performance, nearly clinching his first 100-yard rushing game, while averaging 4.8 yards per carry. However, offensive tackle JC Latham struggled, allowing another sack and several pressures during the game, which puts his performance under scrutiny.
Injuries are another concern for the Titans, as Spears is facing challenges in clearing concussion protocols, and Jaelyn Duncan is unlikely to return following a brief stint in the last game. Callahan mentioned that running back Tony Pollard, who missed his first game due to illness and injury, alongside guard Dillon Radunz, might return.
A critical statistic for the season sees 13 Titans starters in Jacksonville who didn’t start the initial game against Chicago, underlining the team’s injury woes. Additionally, rookies Jarvis Brownlee Jr. and Darrell Baker have stepped in at cornerback, indicating a significant shift in the team’s lineup.
Looking ahead, a loss in the upcoming game could potentially position the Titans for the second overall pick in the draft. If the New England Patriots also fall to the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee could end up with the top pick overall for the first time since 2016, which led to numerous pivotal team additions.
