In a surprising yet anticipated move, the Tennessee Titans have parted ways with general manager Ran Carthon following a dismal 3-14 season, which earned them the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision comes as no shock to fans and analysts who have watched the Titans struggle over the past two years, amassing a 9-25 record. The statement released by controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk underscores a sense of urgency for a franchise in need of rejuvenation and clear direction. Strunk’s disappointment was palpable as she acknowledged the stagnation that has plagued the team, emphasizing the need for substantial changes in leadership.
As the Titans embark on a quest to find a new general manager, the team has made it clear that they intend to maintain continuity on the coaching staff, at least for the time being, with Brian Callahan staying on as head coach. Chad Brinker, the president of football operations, has been tasked with spearheading the search for Carthon’s successor. Brinker has articulated a need for an evaluator steeped in scouting and player development, particularly someone who has proven capability in drafting talent for the NFL. This laid-back emphasis on a “scout-first” mentality suggests a possible shift in the Titans’ approach to building their roster moving forward.
What is particularly noteworthy about this search process is the statement from team president and CEO Burke Nihill regarding the hierarchical structure within the Titans’ front office. While the new general manager will oversee daily roster decisions, Nihill made it abundantly clear that Brinker will hold the final authority on all football matters. This clarification underlines the importance of cohesive collaboration between the coaching staff and the front office, indicating a shift from Carthon’s tenure, where strategic alignment might have been less pronounced.
Carthon’s tenure can be characterized by tumult and missed opportunities. He arrived in Tennessee amid a transitional phase and was given the responsibility to turn the franchise around, especially after the mid-season dismissal of his predecessor, Jon Robinson. Unfortunately, his efforts were met with minimal success, as the team faltered under his management. After a challenging stint that included a brutal seven-game losing streak, many Titans fans were left questioning the team’s strategic vision. This perspective became more pronounced when Carthon was elevated to executive vice president, reflecting the inefficacies in his earlier role.
His hiring signified hope during a time of uncertainty, yet under his guidance, the Titans executed a lackluster season in 2023. The recent decision to retain Coach Callahan—whose 3-14 record mirrors the Titans’ worst performance since 2015—reinforces the perception that change is both urgent and necessary.
As Tennessee aims to revive its once-thriving football culture, the upcoming search for a general manager is crucial. While names like Colorado’s Deion Sanders and his highly touted quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, have surfaced in discussions about potential draft strategies, the Titans must ensure that whoever they bring on board can effectively collaborate with Callahan. The franchise’s new direction hinges on the appointment of a general manager who understands the importance of solid partnerships, both in scouting and working alongside the coaching staff.
The Titans find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. As the season unfolds and the organization readies itself for significant changes, one thing remains certain: the leadership shakeup must yield results. For the sake of their dedicated fan base and their own aspirations of success, the Titans must act decisively to carve a new path forward—one that prioritizes strategic foresight, collaborative teamwork, and the vision essential for winning in the NFL. The upcoming months will undoubtedly be transformative for this storied franchise, and all eyes will be on Nashville as they navigate these changes.