Titans’ Head Coach Prospects: Nagy, McCarthy, Minter, Shula Considered

The Tennessee Titans have recently entered a critical phase in their search for a new head coach following a challenging season. After starting the current campaign with a disappointing 1-5 record, the Titans made the decision to part ways with Brian Callahan on October 13, marking the first coaching change in the NFL this season.

Titans’ Struggles Under Interim Coach

Since Callahan’s departure, the Titans have continued to struggle, enduring a six-game losing streak under interim coach Mike McCoy. With the team currently at 0-6 in this phase, the prospects of McCoy being named the permanent head coach seem slim. This situation places Titans’ president of football operations Chad Brinker and general manager Mike Borgonzi in a pivotal position as they seek a new leader for the team.

Coaching Candidates

As the Titans prepare for impending coaching changes, several candidates have emerged as potential hires. If Brinker and Borgonzi lean towards experienced coaching talent, two notable names stand out:

• Matt Nagy – Currently the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, Nagy has a past connection to the Titans’ front office and has previous head coaching experience with the Chicago Bears, leading them to two playoff appearances.
• Mike McCarthy – The former head coach of the Green Bay Packers, McCarthy brings significant experience, including a Super Bowl victory. His winning percentage over 18 seasons is .608, making him another strong candidate.

Both coaches could provide valuable expertise in developing the Titans’ quarterback, Cam Ward, the first overall pick in last year’s draft. Improving Ward’s performance is vital for the team’s revival.

Defensive Coordinators Under Consideration

The Titans are not confined to offensive-minded coaches. They are also evaluating defensive candidates, suggesting a broader search strategy. Two coordinators gaining attention are:

• Jesse Minter – Currently with the Los Angeles Chargers, Minter has garnered praise for developing formidable defenses. His successful stint at Michigan may enhance his appeal.
• Chris Shula – Serving as the Rams’ defensive coordinator, Shula has improved the team’s defensive rankings significantly from the previous season. He comes from a distinguished coaching lineage, being the grandson of legendary coach Don Shula.

Future Hiring Timeline

The Titans are expected to finalize their decision once the hiring cycle begins in January. As they consider new candidates, the next leader will likely bring in their own staff. However, there is an inclination for the new coach to consider retaining John Fassel, the first-year special teams coordinator, who has a robust background and was previously associated with McCarthy in Dallas.

As the Titans work to revitalize their franchise, the choice of head coach will be critical in shaping the team’s future trajectory. With a blend of offensive and defensive perspectives, the organization aims to set themselves on a path toward success.