The Tennessee Titans executed a bombshell by firing general manager Ran Carthon on Tuesday. By doing so, owner Amy Adams Strunk revealed a new power structure that sits president of football operations Chad Brinker atop the food chain. Brinker will now oversee the process of appointing Carthon's successor, who will act as his No. 2. With several potential candidates likely making Tennessee's shortlist, the first official option has been revealed.
The Titans have requested an interview with Kansas City Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Borgonzi, according to a report by The Athletic's Dianna Russini.
The Tennessee Titans have requested an interview with Chiefs Asst. GM Mike Borgonzi, per source.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 8, 2025
Borgonzi has been among the hottest GM candidates in recent offseasons, but he hasn't been in a hurry to leave Brett Veach's side, as the two have built a dynasty in Kansas City. Borgonzi has worked for the Chiefs since 2009 and has been in his current role since 2021. He previously gained consideration for the Commanders’ GM gig last offseason before Washington ultimately hired Adam Peters to fill that position.
Borgonzi was likely intrigued by the Commanders gig because they owned the second pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, ultimately drafting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Perhaps Borgonzi will be equally intrigued by Tennessee owning the No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, though none of the quarterback prospects available are ranked as highly as Daniels was last year.
Tennessee's next general manager will also inherit an excellent financial situation, though he'll have to answer to Brinker before making any rash personnel moves. The Titans are currently slated to possess roughly $42.3 million in 'effective cap space' this offseason, according to Over The Cap's calculations. That's the 13th-highest amount in the league, and they'll create more financial flexibility by releasing/trading veteran players in the coming weeks.
Brinker has stated that the Titans want to be a draft and develop team. Following the Chiefs' model would be ideal, as they drafted and developed the majority of their notable players, including Patrick Mahomes, Isiah Pacheco, Travis Kelce, Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Chris Jones, just to name a few. Borgonzi has been in Kansas City for all of those selections, working in various roles from pro scout to director of player personnel.
Borgonzi is the first-known candidate to succeed Carthon as Tennessee's general manager. More names should be revealed as the Titans continue to submit requests to interview prospective applicants. Borgonzi would be a home-run hire for the Titans.