Titans Head Coach Search 2026 (Working on deal with Saleh)

[Callidus]

1 hour ago, AussieTitanFan08 said:

 

There has been some stats floating around over the last couple of weeks comparing the Jets defense over the last 17 games Saleh was there with the next 17 games and they were #1 in multiple categories and dropped to #31st-#32nd in some categories after he left.

Just found the stat i think you were talking about.

 

They were number 1 in points per drive and epa per play, and are now last in both. 

[9 Nines]

Saleh defense (I guess it is a Fisher defense but safeties protecting zones instead of run and blitz support, and far less blitzing with more controlled pressure.) 

 

Core Principles
 

4-3 Base: A four-man front with three linebackers, balancing run-stopping and pass-rushing.

Relentless Chaos, Organized: The defensive line, particularly the LEO (edge rusher), creates pressure through stunts and speed, but stays disciplined to avoid penalties and keep the QB in the pocket.

Defensive Backfield Coverage: Uses Cover 3 and two-high safety looks to disguise coverages, forcing offenses into high-leverage situations like third downs. 

Key Personnel Needs

Elite Pass Rushers: A top-tier speed rusher (LEO) and a strong-side defensive end to occupy blockers.

Versatile Linebackers: Inside linebackers who can cover and fill gaps quickly.

Smart, Disciplined Secondary: Cornerbacks and safeties who can handle man and zone responsibilities and make plays in key moments. 

Strategic Focus

Third-Down Dominance: Force offenses into long third downs and win those battles through pressure and coverage.

Controlled Aggression: Attack relentlessly but within the scheme's structure, avoiding over-pursuit that creates big plays.

Scheme Versatility: Mix up looks and stunts to keep offensive lines off balance, making life easier for the front four. 

Edited December 14, 2025 by 9 Nines

[nine]

I haven't done any homework whatsoever on the subject...but of the various names I've seen floated, Saleh would be my choice.

 

I don't know anything about Saleh's strengths or weaknesses as a HC when he was with NYJ....but when he was fired,  it felt like he was being railroaded and made the scapegoat for the Jets' QB quagmire and overall organizational dysfunction.  Saleh was put in an untenable no-win situation....and then fired for losing.

 

I suspect he'd fare much better in Tennessee with a legit young QB prospect and an owner who isn't constantly interfering and micromanaging football and roster decisions.

[Pragidealist]

My only real hope for the next HC is that he is offensive minded. (Hell I don't care if they're a 'he').     I don't need an OC genius or a guy who call his own plays.  I just want a guy who knows how to build a highly effective offense.  Let's not regress back to another defensive specialist who wants to run the ball and play defense. 

 

 

[Callidus]

11 minutes ago, Pragidealist said:

My only real hope for the next HC is that he is offensive minded. (Hell I don't care if they're a 'he').     I don't need an OC genius or a guy who call his own plays.  I just want a guy who knows how to build a highly effective offense.  Let's not regress back to another defensive specialist who wants to run the ball and play defense. 

 

 

If we did get a defensive coach I would hope they bring in a guy like mike McDaniel if he gets fired. Plenty of play calling experience, should stick around for atleast 2-3 years till he gets another shot at hc. 

[Pragidealist]

6 minutes ago, Callidus said:

If we did get a defensive coach I would hope they bring in a guy like mike McDaniel if he gets fired. Plenty of play calling experience, should stick around for atleast 2-3 years till he gets another shot at hc. 

Then he gets a new job and it changes and hten gets a new job and it changes.  I would prefer a HC with an offensive (passing) philosophy that he can use to help hire OC's to fit it.  And teh expereince to be able to a) hire welll who can do the job and b) fix it if the OC isnt' working out.  

 

[Callidus]

4 minutes ago, Pragidealist said:

Then he gets a new job and it changes and hten gets a new job and it changes.  I would prefer a HC with an offensive (passing) philosophy that he can use to help hire OC's to fit it.  And teh expereince to be able to a) hire welll who can do the job and b) fix it if the OC isnt' working out.  

 

I get it but you would have to hope that ward by year 4 or 5 is built up to the point where changing OCs isn't that big of a deal anymore. I dont expect him to turn into manning or anything but you cant just rule out defensive coaches completely for continuity sake. 

Edited December 14, 2025 by Callidus

[Pragidealist]

2 minutes ago, Callidus said:

I get it but you would have to hope that ward by year 4 or 5 is built up to the point where changing OCs isn't that big of a deal anymore. I dont expect him to turn into manning or anything but you cant just rule out defensive coaches completely for continuity sake. 

 

I don't think you can hire an OC at any point and bet they stay 4 or 5 years- particularly if they are good.  

[Callidus]

1 minute ago, Pragidealist said:

 

I don't think you can hire an OC at any point and bet they stay 4 or 5 years- particularly if they are good.  

I said 2 or 3. Ward would be in year 4 or 5 when they left. 

Edited December 14, 2025 by Callidus

[Pragidealist]

3 minutes ago, Callidus said:

I said 2 or 3. Ward would be in year 4 or 5 when they left. 

Ok. I'm not a math guy but.. if an OC comes in next year and stays 2 years.. Ward would be a 3 year vet and only 2 in a the system.... meaning 1 year in one system, then - assuming its succesfful- changing again in 2 years.  

 

All to say- I am hoping for an offensive minded coach where Ward and the offense becomes really good and has stabilit for the next 5 years.  (meaning IF OC's change-  its no big deal)

[TeamRamrod]

15 hours ago, 9 Nines said:

I read a report that Saleh, 49ers defensive coordinator and ex-Jets head coach will be a candidate. 

That would be a good fit if he gave open field to the offensive coordinator. 

Multiple local guys have confidently just outright said he wants the titans job. There must be something out there they heard. 

[Callidus]

23 minutes ago, Pragidealist said:

Ok. I'm not a math guy but.. if an OC comes in next year and stays 2 years.. Ward would be a 3 year vet and only 2 in a the system.... meaning 1 year in one system, then - assuming its succesfful- changing again in 2 years.  

 

All to say- I am hoping for an offensive minded coach where Ward and the offense becomes really good and has stabilit for the next 5 years.  (meaning IF OC's change-  its no big deal)

This year plus 2 more years would be 3 years accrued going into hia 4th year. Thats always how its been counted. R, 2, 3, 4, 5...

[oldschool]

20 minutes ago, TeamRamrod said:

Multiple local guys have confidently just outright said he wants the titans job. There must be something out there they heard. 

 

Agent talk... and there is nothing wrong with it. of course Saleh wants it to be known he wants to be a HC again this cycle.

[NashvilleNinja]

22 hours ago, TeamRamrod said:

Lmao he literally did. Posted about it in a comment section under one of his videos and he even replied! He had no idea before that.

 

Titans Report: "Feeding Podcaster Bros Families Since 20xx."

[SuperFreak90]

I think Matt Nagy would be a mistake as our HC.