Titans Dismiss Brian Callahan, Appoint Mike McCoy as Interim Coach

Bassyonni

ago 3 hours

The Tennessee Titans have made a significant change in their coaching staff, dismissing head coach Brian Callahan after a challenging 1-5 start to the 2025 NFL season. In his place, senior offensive assistant Mike McCoy has been appointed as the interim head coach.

Titans Dismiss Brian Callahan, Appoint Mike McCoy as Interim Coach

Brian Callahan’s tenure with the Titans, which began in 2024, ended with a dismal record of 4-19. His departure followed a morning meeting on October 13, 2025, with Titans GM Mike Borgonzi and president Chad Brinker informing him of their decision. Team owner Amy Adams Strunk also contacted Callahan, as reported by league sources.

Callahan’s Struggles and Controversial Decisions

Callahan faced intense scrutiny during the season. His second year took a rough start with a loss against the Denver Broncos. In that game, rookie wide receiver Elic Ayomanor made a pivotal 23-yard catch, but Callahan opted not to challenge the play based on an incorrect interpretation of the rules. The Titans ended up losing the match 20-12.

Another significant misstep occurred during Week 3. The Titans had the opportunity to narrow the score against the Indianapolis Colts but incurred a delay of game penalty before a critical field goal attempt. Following this, the Colts managed to extend their lead rather than facing a smaller deficit.

Callahan ultimately surrendered play-calling responsibilities to quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree after the Week 3 loss. Under Hardegree’s guidance, the Titans suffered a devastating 26-0 defeat against the Houston Texans, who claimed their first win of the season.

Despite the challenges, the Titans achieved a notable victory in Week 5, scoring over 20 points for only the second time this season in a win against the Arizona Cardinals. One of the touchdowns was unorthodox, originating from a fumble following an interception thrown by rookie quarterback Cam Ward.

A Look Back at Callahan’s Background

Callahan’s hiring came as a surprise following the release of long-time head coach Mike Vrabel. Under Vrabel, the Titans achieved two division titles and three playoff appearances, yet a strained relationship with ownership led to his dismissal after two subpar seasons with records of 7-10 and 6-11.

Before taking over as head coach for the Titans, Callahan was the offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals. During his tenure, the Bengals ranked 18th in points scored and 21st in yards gained per game. He previously worked as a quarterbacks coach with the Oakland Raiders and Detroit Lions.

Introducing Interim Coach Mike McCoy

Mike McCoy, who stepped into the interim role, joined the Titans in 2025 after serving as quarterbacks coach with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His coaching experience includes heading the San Diego Chargers from 2013 to 2016. McCoy has also worked with the Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, and Carolina Panthers.

This shake-up in the Titans’ football operations marks a critical moment in the season as the franchise looks to turn around its fortunes. Further updates on the team’s performance and coaching developments will follow.