The Tennessee Titans are closing in on their next head coach, and the search is starting to take shape with two clear finalists emerging: Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Both candidates bring very different resumes to the table, but each offers a compelling case for why they might be the right fit to lead Tennessee into its next era.
Let’s start with Nagy. He’s no stranger to the head coaching spotlight, having previously led the Chicago Bears and now serving as the offensive coordinator for the Chiefs under Andy Reid.
His connection to Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi-built during their shared time in Kansas City-has made him a name to watch from the start. That familiarity could go a long way in aligning vision and philosophy between the front office and coaching staff, something the Titans have clearly prioritized in this search.
Nagy’s offensive pedigree is well-documented. He’s been part of the Chiefs' high-powered attack, and while his stint in Chicago had its ups and downs, he still managed to lead the Bears to a division title and a playoff berth. If the Titans are looking to reinvigorate their offense and develop a young quarterback, Nagy’s experience with signal-callers and creative play design could be a major selling point.
On the other side of the ball is Jeff Hafley, a rising defensive mind who made the jump from college head coach at Boston College to defensive coordinator in Green Bay. Hafley has quickly earned respect around the league for his ability to connect with players and modernize defensive schemes.
He’s young, energetic, and viewed by many as a coach on the ascent. His candidacy signals that the Titans are open to a fresh voice and possibly a long-term builder who can grow with the roster.
While Nagy and Hafley are the current frontrunners, the Titans’ coaching carousel hasn’t been without some twists. Kevin Stefanski, once considered a finalist, took the Atlanta Falcons job, removing himself from the mix. That marked the second time a candidate backed out to take another opportunity-John Harbaugh previously canceled his meeting with Tennessee after accepting the New York Giants head coaching role.
Still, the Titans aren’t done yet. Veteran coach Mike McCarthy, who previously led both the Packers and Cowboys, completed his first official interview with the team on Saturday.
He arrived in town Friday and had dinner with team leadership before sitting down formally with the front office. McCarthy’s name carries weight.
He has a Super Bowl ring, a long track record of offensive success, and strong ties to several Titans decision-makers. He worked alongside special teams coordinator John “Bones” Fassel in Dallas and has connections with both Reggie McKenzie and the Titans' president of football operations from their shared time in Green Bay.
The search remains active. The Titans are still conducting first-round interviews this weekend, with former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon scheduled to meet with the team on Sunday. They're also set to speak via Zoom with 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who brings prior head coaching experience from his time with the Jets.
In other words, don’t be surprised if this list of finalists grows before it shrinks. The Titans are casting a wide net, and with several credible names still in play, the final decision could come down to how well a candidate aligns with the franchise’s long-term vision-not just in scheme, but in leadership, culture, and adaptability.
For now, Nagy and Hafley have the inside track. But in a coaching cycle that’s already seen some unexpected turns, the Titans’ next move will be one to watch closely.