Titans Close to Finalizing Saleh as New Head Coach

The Tennessee Titans are nearing an agreement to appoint Robert Saleh as their new head coach. This development comes after Saleh, the San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator, visited the Titans in Nashville on Monday. Sources indicate that both parties were impressed by the meeting, paving the way for a deal.

Titans’ Coaching Changes

Saleh will be the 20th coach in the history of the Oilers/Titans franchise and the seventh since the team relocated to Nashville in 1997. His tenure follows the firing of Brian Callahan, as the Titans finished the season with a disappointing 3-14 record.

Interview Process

• The Titans initially intended to conduct a virtual interview with Saleh on Sunday.
• After hosting Matt Nagy, the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, the Titans opted for an in-person meeting with Saleh.
• The decision to proceed with Saleh was influenced by his impressive presentation to Titans’ management.

Saleh’s Coaching Background

This will mark Saleh’s second head coaching role. He previously led the New York Jets from 2021 to 2024 but struggled to achieve significant success. His time with the Jets concluded with a 20-36 record, despite high hopes following a trade for future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Key Challenges Ahead

Saleh’s first major task will be to find an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach focused on developing Cam Ward, the team’s young quarterback and last year’s first overall draft pick. During the recent season, Tennessee averaged only 16.7 points per game, their second-fewest since establishing themselves in Nashville.

Titans Looking Forward

The Titans have not made the playoffs since 2021, when they were the AFC’s top seed. They aim to revitalize the team under Saleh’s leadership. Furthermore, the franchise is planning to transition to a new stadium by 2027, marking a new era for the organization.