Key takeaways:
– Kingsbury and Stenavich set for Monday interviews: Tennessee is tightening the timeline while they wait on the Daboll market to clear, aiming to lock in an offensive mind soon.
– Kliff Kingsbury: Fresh off parting ways with Washington after a 5-12 season, Kingsbury is known for developing QBs. He guided Jayden Daniels to a standout rookie year (69% with 891 rushing yards) and AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2024. His pedigree includes producing stars like Baker Mayfield, Patrick Mahomes, and Kyler Murray, and he’s mentored Caleb Williams at USC in 2023. He previously led the Cardinals (2019-22) with an 11-6 playoff run in 2021 and a history of offensive success.
– Adam Stenavich: Packers’ OC since 2022, he’s overseen a high-functioning offense through QB transitions from Rodgers to Love. A Wisconsin native and former OT with Michigan, his coaching path spans NFL stops (Carolina, Green Bay, Dallas) and college roots, including a stint with SF as an assistant OL coach.
– The Daboll factor looms large: Tennessee is keeping multiple contingency plans in place as Daboll’s head-coach candidacy plays out with the Bills and Raiders. The Titans “would like to hire him ASAP,” but the search remains fluid.
– Other notes: Arthur Smith is off the board for OC duties, having taken OSU’s offensive coordinator job. Thad Lewis, former QB coach in Tampa Bay, will also interview for the Titans’ OC role on Monday, marking a second Rooney Rule candidate in the mix.
Big picture: Tennessee is pursuing proven quarterback-development acumen to pair with rookie Cam Ward, aiming to accelerate his growth and maximize an exciting young offense. 🏈📊🔥