The Tennessee Titans hired one of the best head coaching candidates in Robert Saleh. Saleh has now shifted focus to filling out his coaching staff. The offensive coordinator position looms especially large.
Recently, the Titans requested to interview Falcons’ defensive pass-game coordinator Mike Rutenberg, who was with Saleh in New York, per Jeremy Fowler. He can easily become the next DC if both sides agree it’s a good idea. As for the offense, that’s a different story.
After the hiring of Saleh, a lot of fans were hoping that Mike McDaniel may team up with Saleh again and become the offensive coordinator in Tennessee. However, it looks like he will be going to the Los Angeles Chargers as their OC, if he doesn’t land a head coaching gig.
Report: Titans, Robert Saleh desperate to hire Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator
The one name that has always been in the mix and looks to be the most likely option for Tennessee is Brian Daboll. The former Giants head coach had interviewed for the Buffalo Bills’ HC job, which makes sense considering that he was their offensive coordinator in Josh Allen’s early years. Now, Tennessee is forced to wait and it appears that really want Daboll in the building.
According to Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport, the Titans “would like to hire him [Daboll] ASAP.” Garafolo then commented on how Daboll is going through the head coaching prospects that includes both the Bills and the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay Morning with @TomPelissero and @MikeGarafolo: The #Steelers brought Mike McCarthy home; Brian Daboll is in the mix for two head coaching jobs; The #Bills interviewed former NFL QB and elite leader Philip Rivers and the interest is real. pic.twitter.com/xlCRRg6kKr
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2026
The Titans are in a tough spot right now. Saleh has to get the OC hire right in order to keep the development of Cam Ward on a good trajectory. If the Titans miss out on Daboll, Saleh would be losing a great offensive play caller who has had success as a play caller in this league.
The Bills’ decision for their next head coach may take a little bit more time, and that could put Tennessee in a spot and pivot just in case they believe that Daboll won’t be an option for them.