The Tennessee Titans have parted ways with head coach Brian Callahan following a disappointing 1-5 start to the 2025 season. The decision came after a series of discussions among the team’s ownership and management. Mike McCoy, the senior offensive assistant, has been appointed as interim head coach.
In a statement, Chad Brinker, the Titans’ president of football operations, expressed gratitude for Callahan’s efforts, acknowledging his commitment to the team and the community. “These decisions are never easy, and they become more difficult when they involve people of great character,” Brinker said. “We are grateful for Brian’s investment in the Titans and Tennessee community during his tenure as head coach.”
Callahan, 41, was hired in January 2024 after five seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite his experience—including a Super Bowl appearance with the Bengals—his tenure in Tennessee has been underwhelming, with the Titans posting a 4-19 record under his leadership. The team’s lack of growth and inability to meet expectations contributed to the decision to make a change.
McCoy, 53, brings significant coaching experience, including a four-year stint as the head coach of the San Diego Chargers (2013-2016), where he posted a 27-37 record. He has also served as offensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals and most recently worked as the quarterbacks coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars. McCoy joined the Titans’ staff in March 2025.
The firing of Callahan follows a 20-10 road loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Titans’ struggles have been a source of frustration for both players and coaching staff. Defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons and rookie quarterback Cam Ward both expressed disappointment after the loss. Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, had a rough game, completing 26 of 38 passes for 222 yards, one touchdown, and two turnovers (an interception and two fumbles).
Simmons noted that the team’s performance was directly linked to a poor week of practice. “In this league, you have to learn how to be able to stack wins and carry that momentum over,” he said. “Just being honest, this was probably one of our worst weeks of practice. We came out flat Thursday. Sometimes things carry over.”
The Titans’ decision to fire Callahan signals the team’s frustration with their underperformance. The Titans will now look to interim coach McCoy to turn things around as they continue their season under his leadership.
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