The Tennessee Titans didn’t waste any time making their head coaching hire, locking in Robert Saleh as the man to lead the franchise into 2026 and beyond. But while the head coach box is checked, the real work is just beginning - and it starts with building out a staff that can elevate a roster in need of direction on both sides of the ball.
Offensive Coordinator Search: Daboll at the Top of the Board
Let’s start with the offense, where the Titans are hunting for a coordinator who can help shape the future of Cam Ward. The rookie quarterback showed flashes in Year 1, but now it’s about development - and that means finding the right mind to pair with him.
The top name in the mix? Brian Daboll.
He’s currently in the middle of the head coaching interview process for the Buffalo Bills, but if that opportunity doesn’t pan out, league insiders expect him to land in Tennessee. Daboll’s résumé speaks for itself: he’s a proven quarterback whisperer who helped turn Josh Allen into a star and brought stability to the Giants’ offense before that situation went sideways.
But here’s the challenge - timing. If the Titans wait too long for Daboll’s situation to shake out, they risk losing other qualified candidates in the meantime. It’s a delicate balance between patience and urgency, and it could shape the offensive identity of this team for years to come.
Defensive Coordinator: Familiar Faces and Smart Fits
On the defensive side, Saleh is expected to take the lead in calling plays - no surprise there, given his track record and defensive pedigree. But he still needs a coordinator who can help with the day-to-day grind of installation, preparation, and in-game adjustments.
Enter Aaron Whitecotton.
The Titans have formally requested to interview Whitecotton, who currently coaches the defensive line for the Dallas Cowboys. Not only is he coming off a season where Dallas’ front was among the league’s best in quarterback hits, but he also has deep ties to Saleh.
The two have worked together in Jacksonville, San Francisco, and with the Jets. That kind of continuity matters - especially when you’re trying to implement a defensive system that requires buy-in and execution at a high level.
There’s also a connection to Titans GM Mike Borgonzi through Whitecotton’s work with Dave Borgonzi (Mike’s brother) in Dallas. It’s not just about familiarity; it’s about trust, communication, and understanding how to build a cohesive unit from day one.
Given where the Titans’ defense stands - outside of All-Pro talent like Jeffrey Simmons, there’s a real need for both talent and scheme - bringing in someone who knows Saleh’s system inside and out feels like a logical move. Whitecotton checks a lot of boxes, and if this hire comes together, it’ll be less of a surprise and more of a strategic reunion.
The Road Ahead
The Titans are at a pivotal point. With a new head coach in place and a young quarterback to develop, the next few hires will go a long way in determining how quickly this team can turn the corner. Saleh has a clear vision, and now it’s about surrounding himself with the right people to bring that vision to life.
Whether it’s Daboll helping unlock Cam Ward’s potential, or Whitecotton anchoring a defense that needs a spark, Tennessee’s staff decisions over the coming weeks will set the tone for the 2026 season - and possibly the next era of Titans football.