The Tennessee Titans are deep into their head coaching search, and things are starting to take shape. According to reports, the team is looking to line up second interviews with two key candidates: Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. That signals a narrowing field - and potentially a clearer vision for what kind of identity the Titans want to establish moving forward.
Let’s take a closer look at where things stand.
The Finalists (So Far)
The Titans have already completed interviews with three candidates who now appear to be in the final round of consideration:
- Matt Nagy (Chiefs OC)
- Jeff Hafley (Packers DC)
- Kevin Stefanski (Former Browns HC)
All three bring different strengths to the table. Nagy has head coaching experience and an offensive pedigree tied closely to Andy Reid. Hafley is a rising defensive mind who’s been gaining momentum in multiple coaching searches, while Stefanski has a history of maximizing talent on both sides of the ball and is reportedly a top contender for the Falcons job as well.
Still in the Mix
Beyond the trio of finalists, the Titans have cast a wide net, interviewing a mix of current coordinators and former head coaches:
- Steve Spagnuolo (Chiefs DC)
- Lou Anarumo (Colts DC)
- Vance Joseph (Broncos DC)
- Raheem Morris (Former Falcons HC)
- Jason Garrett (Former Cowboys HC)
- Arthur Smith (Steelers OC)
- Mike McDaniel (Former Dolphins HC)
- Mike McCoy (Interim HC)
There are also several candidates who are scheduled for interviews or have had requests submitted:
- Mike McCarthy (Former Cowboys HC) - Scheduled
- Jonathan Gannon (Former Cardinals HC) - Scheduled
- Brian Daboll (Former Giants HC) - Scheduled
- Kliff Kingsbury (Former Commanders OC) - Requested
- Robert Saleh (49ers DC) - Scheduled
- Chris Shula (Rams DC) - Requested
- Jesse Minter (Chargers DC) - Requested
It’s a long list, but the Titans are clearly doing their homework, balancing experienced head coaches with up-and-coming coordinators.
Why Matt Nagy Is Back in the Spotlight
Nagy, 47, is no stranger to the head coaching carousel. After starting his NFL coaching career with the Eagles as an intern in 2008, he climbed the ladder quickly. By 2011, he was working in offensive quality control before moving to Kansas City to join Andy Reid’s staff.
His big break came when Reid handed over play-calling duties during the 2017 season - a move that helped Nagy land the Bears’ head coaching job in 2018. In Chicago, Nagy posted a 34-31 record over four seasons, including two playoff appearances. While the postseason results didn’t go his way (0-2), he did help guide the Bears to a 12-4 record in his first year, earning NFL Coach of the Year honors.
After parting ways with the Bears, Nagy returned to Kansas City in 2022 as a senior assistant and quarterbacks coach. He was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2023, stepping into the role vacated by Eric Bieniemy. Working alongside Patrick Mahomes in one of the league’s most creative offenses has only strengthened Nagy’s case for another shot at running a team.
Hafley Gaining Steam
Jeff Hafley is another name to watch. He’s reportedly a frontrunner for the Dolphins’ head coaching job, but the Titans are clearly intrigued as well. Known for his defensive acumen and leadership, Hafley has built a strong résumé in a short time at the NFL level, and his candidacy reflects a growing trend of teams looking for fresh voices on the defensive side of the ball.
What’s Next for Tennessee?
With second interviews being scheduled, the Titans are entering the final stages of their search. Whether they lean toward an offensive mind like Nagy, a defensive strategist like Hafley, or a steady veteran like Stefanski, the decision will speak volumes about where this franchise is headed.
Tennessee has talent on both sides of the ball but is in need of a reset - someone who can build a long-term vision and get the most out of a roster that’s shown flashes of promise but hasn’t been able to sustain momentum.
The Titans aren’t rushing this decision, and with good reason. The next head coach will be tasked with more than just calling plays or managing a locker room - they’ll be setting the tone for what’s next in Nashville. And based on how this search is unfolding, the Titans are making sure they get it right.