Titans Stunned as Raiders Snag Key Defensive Coach

Titans face unexpected coaching shuffle as Travis Smith returns to the Raiders, leaving a key role open to speculation.

Just as the Tennessee Titans were settling into their new coaching lineup, head coach Robert Saleh is already facing a shake-up.

On Monday, NFL Insider Adam Schefter broke the news that the Las Vegas Raiders have tapped Travis Smith for their defensive line coach position under the new leadership of Klint Kubiak. Smith, who played a pivotal role as a senior defensive assistant and pass rush specialist, is making a return to familiar territory. His history with the Raiders spans a decade (2012-2021), where he climbed the coaching ladder before a stint with the Chicago Bears in 2022.

Smith’s departure leaves a gap in the Titans' coaching staff, specifically in the pass rush department. Aaron Whitecotton has stepped into the role of defensive line coach, taking over Smith’s previous responsibility as the defensive run game coordinator.

As for the Titans’ next move to fill the pass rush specialist role, the team has remained tight-lipped. However, this topic is likely to be addressed at the upcoming coordinator's press conference on Wednesday. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Saleh and his team navigate this unexpected change.