NFL Exec Blasts Titans, 'Nobody's First Choice' After John Harbaugh, Kevin Stefanski Rumors

As they look to hire a new head coach, the Tennessee Titans are suffering from a perception problem.

The Athletic's Mike Sando reported the franchise "lacks credibility and gravitas at the ownership level."

To see what that means in practice, look no further than the fact the Titans pursued John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski, only to see them both take different jobs.

"Tennessee is nobody's first choice," one NFL executive told Sando. "You have to go find someone who is not on someone's radar and just go after them."

Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported the Titans are circling back with Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley for second interviews. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, they're also speaking with San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh on Monday.

Saleh's schedule opened up after the Niners lost 41-6 to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC divisional round.

▶️ Full 49ers-Seahawks Recap

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While his final destination is unclear, the Chiefs are operating as if Nagy is gone. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported they requested permission to speak with Eric Bieniemy about bringing him back as the offensive coordinator.

If the Titans' search ends in the hiring of Nagy, it will reinforce the notion they aren't a marquee draw.

Nagy had a 34-31 record in four years as coach of the Chicago Bears. Offense was supposed to be his hallmark, yet the team never ranked higher than 21st in yards.

His return to the Chiefs hasn't gone all that well, either. Kansas City ranked 20th in yards gained and 21st in points scored in 2025.

In general, it's tough to pinpoint one feature that makes Nagy an attractive candidate. He's probably far from the fanbase's first choice given the pieces still on the board.

Perhaps the Titans can spring a surprise and make a more headline-grabbing appointment.