Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh is strategically positioning himself as he embarks on assembling his coaching staff in Nashville. The search for the right offensive coordinator stands at the forefront of his agenda. Currently, many observers view Brian Daboll as the leading candidate; however, his involvement in the Buffalo head coaching search complicates matters. With Daboll’s availability uncertain, Saleh is proactively engaging with other potential candidates, marking a pivotal moment in the Titans’ coaching strategy.
Linking Past Success with Future Aspirations
Among those candidates is Arthur Smith, a familiar figure to Titans fans. According to reports from El-Balad, Smith has connected with Saleh regarding the offensive coordinator position. Notably, this marks the second instance this offseason where Smith has met with the Titans’ organization, having previously interviewed with Mike Borgonzi during early discussions for the head coaching role. This level of engagement reflects Saleh’s intention to cultivate a coaching staff that balances familiarity with innovative thinking.
Smith’s return to the coaching conversation is noteworthy, especially given his recent success. After serving as head coach for the Atlanta Falcons, where he compiled a 21-30 record, he has resurrected his coaching prospects by leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to an AFC North championship in 2025, greatly enhancing his standing within the league. His ability to maximize the performance of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers further underscored his offensive acumen, indicating that he can guide teams through transitional periods.
The Stakes for Saleh and the Titans
Smith’s tenure with the Falcons showcased his struggle to find a consistent quarterback—an issue that plagued his otherwise competitive teams. His return to the Titans is significant, not just for him personally but also for the franchise’s trajectory. Prior to his stint with the Falcons, Smith spent a decade in various roles within the Titans’ organization, ascending from assistant to offensive coordinator and managing some of the highest-performing offensive units in franchise history.
| Stakeholder | Before Smith’s Potential Hiring | After Smith’s Potential Hiring |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Titans | Inconsistent offensive performance, uncertainty in coaching staff | Stability in offensive strategy, familiar face promoting continuity |
| Robert Saleh | Leaning on unproven candidates | Bringing in a proven offensive mind with prior success |
| Arthur Smith | Recent failures with the Falcons | Opportunity for redemption and to leverage past Titans experience |
Wider Implications Across the League
This development signals a significant moment not just for the Titans, but also for the broader NFL landscape. As teams grapple with their offensive identities in an increasingly competitive environment, Saleh’s choice will echo throughout coaching circles. A solid appointment could instigate shifts in personnel decisions, particularly regarding quarterbacks. With the ongoing coaching carousel in the NFL, franchises are keenly observing how Saleh’s hiring decisions play out, as they could potentially influence their own strategic directions.
Projected Outcomes
As Saleh moves forward in this critical hiring phase, several developments are likely to unfold:
- Immediate Reactions: Should Smith be appointed, expect a surge in local media optimism around a revitalized Titans offense and increased engagement from fans.
- Quarterback Developments: The Titans may assess their current roster and potential rookie options, depending on the offensive philosophy Smith brings to the table.
- Coordination with Free Agency: A shift in offensive strategy could dictate how the Titans approach free agency, particularly concerning skill positions that are more aligned with Smith’s vision.
Overall, the interplay between Robert Saleh, Arthur Smith, and the Titans illustrates the intricate balancing act of coaching dynamics within the NFL. As Season 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Nashville to see if this calculated move aligns with the ambitions for sustained success.
