In a bold move to reset a franchise that struggled to a 3–14 record last season, the Tennessee Titans announced the hiring of former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh as the new head coach and former New York Giants offensive coordinator Brian Daboll as the offensive play‑caller. The changes come as part of a sweeping offseason overhaul led by general manager Mike Borgonzi, who is aiming to turn the Titans into AFC South contenders.
Coaching changes and philosophy
Saleh, known for his defensive acumen, replaces the departed Brian Callahan after the mid‑season dismissal that followed a disappointing 2025 campaign. Daboll, who guided the New York Giants to a playoff berth in 2023, will be responsible for shaping the offense around second‑year quarterback Cam Ward. While both coaches have yet to prove themselves as long‑term rebuild specialists, the Titans’ front office believes their combined experience can provide the structure the team needs.
Roster upgrades
The Titans have been active in free agency and the draft. They added former Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson and tight end Daniel Bellinger to bolster the receiving corps. Edge rusher John Franklin‑Myers and defensive tackle Solomon Thomas were signed to strengthen the defensive line, while cornerbacks Alontae Taylor and Cor’Dale Flott plus safety Tony Adams were brought in to improve the secondary.
Veteran quarterback Mitchell Trubisky was also signed as a reliable backup, providing “high‑end insurance” should Ward miss time. In the 2026 NFL Draft, Tennessee selected wideout Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick and traded back into the first round to acquire pass rusher Keldric Faulk. The team also let several lingering free agents depart, creating cap flexibility for the new roster.
Offensive outlook
The revamped offense now features a more dynamic receiving group. Rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate joins Robinson and veteran Calvin Ridley, giving Ward a variety of quick‑separation weapons that were lacking in his rookie season. Although the offensive line remains a concern—ranked 29th in the league last year—coaches are optimistic that the unit will improve as the new linemen settle in.
Defensive expectations
Defensively, the addition of Franklin‑Myers, Thomas, and the new cornerbacks should help lift a unit that finished near the bottom of the league in scoring defense. Saleh’s track record of building aggressive, disciplined defenses is expected to translate into more pressure on opposing quarterbacks and better run containment.
Season projections
Analysts note that the Titans still face a challenging schedule, similar to the one that contributed to their 2025 struggles. While some predict a modest improvement—perhaps reaching six wins—the combination of new coaching, upgraded talent, and a more balanced roster gives the franchise a realistic chance to compete for a playoff spot in the AFC South.
Fans in Nashville and across Tennessee will be watching closely as the team implements these changes. The organization’s clear intent is to move beyond a rebuilding phase and re‑establish the Titans as a competitive force in the league.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
