Who Will Lead the Titans Next? Breaking Down the Favorites for Tennessee’s Next Head Coach
After another disappointing start, the Tennessee Titans are again searching for a long-term answer at head coach. Following the recent coaching change, speculation has turned toward who will lead the next phase of the franchise’s rebuild. FOX Sports released early odds for the Titans’ next head coach, and several familiar names top the list.
Matt Nagy (+400)
Why?
The Titans’ Current General Manager is Mike Borgonzi. He previously served in various executive and scouting roles for the Kansas City Chiefs for 16 years, including as the Assistant General Manager.
The 47-year-old offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs has prior head coaching experience with the Chicago Bears, posting a 34–31 record with two playoff appearances from 2018 to 2021. Nagy’s offensive systems have consistently emphasized creativity and adaptability, and he has been instrumental in keeping Kansas City among the league’s top offenses despite key injuries.
For the Titans, Nagy represents a blend of proven experience and offensive innovation, two traits the organization sorely needs as it develops a young quarterback and rebuilds its offensive identity.
Arthur Smith (+500)
Arthur Smith’s name naturally draws attention in Nashville. The current offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers previously spent a decade with the Titans, working his way up to offensive coordinator before taking the Atlanta Falcons head coaching job in 2021.
Although his tenure in Atlanta ended after three straight 7–10 seasons, Smith’s understanding of the Titans’ organizational culture and his track record with the running game make him an appealing option for fans who value continuity and physical football.
Kliff Kingsbury (+600)
Kliff Kingsbury is my wild card.
While his four-year run as the Arizona Cardinals head coach ended short of expectations, he has quietly rebuilt his reputation as Washington’s offensive coordinator. Kingsbury has coached several high-profile quarterbacks, including Patrick Mahomes, Kyler Murray, Johnny Manziel, and now Jayden Daniels.
Kingsbury’s offensive mind is among the most innovative in football. His ability to design spread concepts, manipulate tempo, and develop young quarterbacks could be exactly what the Titans need to modernize their attack. Kingsbury deserves serious consideration if Tennessee wants to lean into an aggressive, forward-thinking offensive identity.
Veteran Voices: McCarthy, Brady, and Flores (+800)
Mike McCarthy remains the most decorated name on the list. The former Packers and Cowboys coach owns a Super Bowl title and has led teams to the playoffs 12 times over 18 seasons. However, his traditional style and age (61) may not align with a rebuilding roster.
Joe Brady and Brian Flores represent the younger tier of candidates. Brady’s offensive creativity and quarterback development skills have drawn praise, while Flores’ disciplined, defensive philosophy could bring stability and accountability to a team in transition.
I like Brady and Flores, so I have no issues if they decide to go that route.
Other Notables
Interim coach Mike McCoy (+900) has done an admirable job keeping the locker room steady but remains a long shot for the full-time position. Todd Monken and Robert Saleh, both listed at +1200, offer intriguing possibilities as experienced coordinators who could reset the tone on either side of the ball.
The Bottom Line
The Titans’ next head coach will shape the franchise for years to come. The team’s identity has been uncertain since the departure of Mike Vrabel, and this hire must balance culture, leadership, and quarterback development.
If the franchise wants familiarity, Arthur Smith offers a return to its roots. But if the Titans truly want to modernize and inject offensive excitement into their future, Kliff Kingsbury might just be the bold, creative swing that pays off.
Prediction: Matt Nagy remains the odds-on favorite, but Kliff Kingsbury is my sleeper pick, who could surprise everyone. His offensive ingenuity and quarterback experience make him the ultimate wild card in Tennessee’s search for a new era of Titans football.
