The Tennessee Titans are getting to know each other as they kick off the offseason with a head start granted to new coaches by the NFL.
They began the voluntary phase of the first part of the offseason on Monday, and new head coach Brian Callahan is making sure to cover all the basics, recognizing the value of every extra minute.
“We’re in a bit of a race against time before the season starts, competing with every other team in the league,” Callahan explained on Wednesday. “We’re trying to catch up to the established teams and ensure we’re prepared for September.”
For Callahan, along with his new coordinators and assistants, this first week serves as both an orientation and an introduction. With each NFL coach having their approach, this marks Callahan’s official debut with the Titans, replacing Mike Vrabel, who was let go in January after two consecutive losing seasons.
Quarterback Will Levis was among the early arrivals on Monday. Callahan emphasized the importance of the quarterback not only leading the offense but also the entire team, especially as Levis enters his second NFL season.
Selected 33rd last year from Kentucky, Levis spent part of the offseason in California preparing for the upcoming season.
Callahan, who previously coached Joe Burrow in Cincinnati, sees potential in Levis to become a standout player. He’s already noticing some promising signs from Levis.
“He’s engaged,” Callahan remarked about Levis. “He takes notes, and asks questions. He’s doing all the right things you’d hope to see from a player looking to improve.”
The Titans have been active in free agency this offseason, making significant moves to bolster their roster. They acquired cornerback L’Jarius Sneed from Kansas City via trade and signed wide receiver Calvin Ridley, center Lloyd Cushenberry, running back Tony Pollard, and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie.
Offensive coordinator Nick Holz, who worked with Ridley in Jacksonville last season, praised Ridley’s work ethic and speed. He believes Ridley’s versatility will be an asset to the team’s offense.
Pollard and Tyjae Spears, Tennessee’s third-round pick last year, are tasked with filling the void left by Derrick Henry’s absence. Holz sees them as interchangeable, providing flexibility in offensive schemes.
The team plans to implement Callahan’s entire offensive playbook and adapt it to suit the strengths of the Titans’ roster, with the NFL draft still ahead. Tennessee holds the seventh pick.
Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is optimistic about the additions of Sneed and Awuzie to the secondary. With the AFC South seeing significant upgrades in wide receiver talent, Wilson emphasizes the importance of having competitive players who are up to the challenge defensively.
