NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans find themselves feeling a mix of embarrassment, anger, and a hint of relief as they wrap up a disappointing season marked by a 3-14 record, ultimately leading to the top overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft. Following ambitious offseason acquisitions aimed at rejuvenating the team, the results fell dramatically short of expectations.
A change in the organization remains uncertain, as controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk has kept her plans under wraps and hasn’t addressed media inquiries since the dismissal of general manager Jon Robinson in December 2022. General manager Ran Carthon, who stepped into the role two seasons ago, was responsible for the recent player signings intended to improve a roster that had suffered due to previous draft missteps.
In his first season as head coach, Brian Callahan navigated the complex responsibilities of being both the play-caller and head coach, learning valuable lessons along the way. The franchise ended the season with a disheartening loss, where some local fans resorted to wearing paper bags over their heads. This defeat marked the Titans’ sixth consecutive loss, tying the record for their most losses since relocating from Texas to Tennessee in 1997.
Callahan recognized the need for significant improvement following a dismal campaign, expressing determination to avoid a repeat of this season’s embarrassment. “I’m committed to ensuring that we don’t find ourselves in a similar situation again,” he stated.
On Monday, Callahan engaged in exit interviews with players before addressing the media, though he had yet to communicate with Strunk about his and Carthon’s futures. When asked about the stability of both Carthon and Chad Brinker, the football operations president, Callahan remained hopeful, saying, “Until told otherwise, I have faith in their positions.”
As it stands, the Titans are projected to enter the offseason with nearly $65 million in salary cap space, ranking them 10th in the NFL. With the combination of ample salary cap flexibility and the coveted No. 1 draft pick, there is an opportunity for the Titans to break their streak of three losing seasons, provided they make the right strategic decisions.
This upcoming draft marks the fourth time the franchise will hold the No. 1 overall pick since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. In previous years, the then-Houston Oilers selected notable players such as defensive tackle John Matuszak and Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell. Previously in 2016, the Titans opted to trade the top pick for multiple selections, leaving them now with a decision to make—either use the first pick on April 24 in Green Bay or trade it to acquire additional draft capital to augment their current eight selections.
In addressing the quarterback situation, Will Levis, who is the only signal-caller under contract through 2025, has had a tumultuous season marked by injury and performance issues, leading to his benching. Levis expressed confidence in his ability to improve, even as he dealt with shoulder concerns and recorded numerous turnovers throughout the year. He started only 12 games, contributing to the team’s 34 total turnovers, while facing considerable pressure behind a struggling offensive line.
Holding the top draft choice presents the Titans with a prime opportunity to select from highly regarded quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward. Callahan has indicated that there may be competition for the starting quarterback position, referencing his discussions with Levis.
Despite significant offseason investments, the Titans faced challenges in their offensive roster as well. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley and running back Tony Pollard recorded impressive statistics but were balanced by injuries that plagued the team. Defensive players like Chidobe Awuzie and Lloyd Cushenberry faced extensive injury setbacks, adversely impacting the team’s overall performance. Additionally, they traded for cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, who was also hindered by injury during his stint.
The Titans struggled with self-inflicted errors, finishing tied for the highest number of turnovers in the league and ranking fifth overall in penalties. Addressing these fundamental issues could significantly enhance the competitiveness of the team moving forward.
Looking ahead, Strunk’s recent decisions within the organization indicate that swift changes could be on the horizon for the management structure. With anticipation building for the Titans’ 2025 schedule, they will face challenges from the NFC West and host teams like Kansas City and New England, which could shape their upcoming campaign as they seek to turn things around.
