The Tennessee Titans’ losing streak continues even after Brian Callahan’s mid-season firing. With a disappointing 1-8 record and growing frustration, the team must find a coach who can guide the locker room. And now, General Manager Mike Borgonzi has clarified what kind of leadership his franchise wants next. 

“We want a leader (for the next head coach), it doesn’t matter whether it’s a guy with an offensive or defensive background,” Mike revealed.

After firing head coach Callahan six games into the season who had a 1‑5 start, it is clear that the manager isn’t looking necessarily for an offensive or defensive mind. He wants somebody whose leadership can command respect and serve as a binding force.

In the meantime, interim coach Mike McCoy has helped stabilize the team in the short term. In fact, the team boss reaffirmed his faith in interim head coach Mike McCoy for holding the team together in a turbulent period, following Callahan’s firing after a Week 6 loss to the Raiders. Borgonzi backed his new coach last month, showing full confidence in McCoy’s ability to “steer the ship.”

According to Tennessee president Chad Brinker, the management parted ways with Callahan because of a lack of growth and a desperate need for improvement. 

“We are doing everything we can, and will do everything we can, to build a football program that you can be proud of,” he added. 

The franchise’s new era of leadership under McCoy couldn’t have come at a better time. The team is entering its bye week with a 1–8 record and four consecutive losses. This might be its best chance to rejuvenate and re-plan its future course of action. 

McCoy eyes the bye week to refocus

Under interim head coach McCoy, the Titans have struggled to find consistency, dropping key games including their latest loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. With no game on the Week 10 schedule, the team finally gets a breather, and McCoy hopes to use the break to address the squad’s shortcomings. 

“Everyone expects to win every time you step out on the field. But when you have self-inflicted wounds and don’t execute for four quarters against a good team, that’s what happens,” he stated after their loss.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of persistence, urging his players to focus on registering a much-needed win. The week would also offer time to recover from injuries that have impacted the roster. 

Key players like defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, pass rusher Arden Key, and wide receiver Calvin Ridley have all missed important games. The week off could help the players and coaches to relax physically and mentally and give them a chance to reassess the team’s approach. 

The Titans may still be chasing a playoff spot, but the bye week gives them a chance to reset ahead of their Week 11 clash against the Houston Texans. It’s a key opportunity for younger players and fringe starters to prove themselves, while the team works to address lingering issues.