The Tennessee Titans have officially appointed Robert Saleh as their new head coach following a productive interview that took place on Monday. The 49ers” defensive coordinator was offered the position shortly after meeting with the Titans” leadership team.
Prior to this, the Titans had not engaged with Saleh due to the San Francisco 49ers” playoff run and the NFL”s interviewing regulations. His meeting marked the first time Tennessee had the opportunity to assess him as a candidate. In the weeks leading up to this decision, the Titans explored a variety of coaching options, with only Matt Nagy, the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, being interviewed in-person.
The Titans conducted extensive research in the wake of Brian Callahan“s firing. They reached out to several figures in the coaching community, including Matt LaFleur, head coach of the Green Bay Packers and a close friend of Saleh”s, who provided valuable insights. Additionally, the Titans creatively involved veteran players like Jeffery Simmons to gather opinions on various candidates.
During the initial three-hour interview, Saleh presented a comprehensive strategy focusing on quarterback Cam Ward, showcasing his understanding of the necessary support and staffing for the offense. He articulated a detailed approach to player welfare, emphasizing the balance between rigorous training and player care. His leadership qualities and presence resonated with the Titans” decision-makers, particularly owner Amy Adams Strunk, who was keen on finding a leader reminiscent of the energy Mike Vrabel brought to the organization.
After the interview, ownership participated in a dinner session where they further evaluated Saleh”s fit for the franchise. Following this, general manager Mike Borgonzi and president of football operations Chad Brinker privately recommended Saleh to Strunk, concluding that he was the ideal choice after their thorough vetting process.
Saleh accepted the offer, and the Titans quickly informed both Simmons and Ward of the decision via FaceTime. While negotiations for Saleh”s contract began late that night, the immediate focus shifted to assembling his coaching staff, notably the offensive coordinator position. Saleh has strong ties to former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, but with multiple options available, it remains uncertain if he will join the Titans. Other potential candidates for the role include Mike LaFleur, Kliff Kingsbury, Brian Daboll, and Arthur Smith.
The Titans are in the midst of reshaping their roster, a task reminiscent of the challenges faced by the Jets when Saleh took over in 2021. However, his hiring is seen as a pivotal step toward stabilizing a franchise that has endured a tumultuous period marked by frequent coaching changes.
In related news, Jeff Hafley has been named head coach of the Miami Dolphins, a decision that aligns with the team”s needs for talent development and culture-building in the unique South Florida setting. The Dolphins prioritized hiring someone who could collaborate effectively with their front office, which Hafley, having previously worked with GM Jon-Eric Sullivan, is well-positioned to do.
As the coaching carousel continues, other teams like the Browns, Raiders, and Cardinals are also seeking to finalize their head coach selections. The uncertainty surrounding these positions adds an intriguing dynamic to the offseason as teams look to establish long-term success.
