Full Breakdown
Brian Daboll's Coaching Future: Titans or Bills?
1/22/2026, 1:18:01 AM
Coaching Changes in Tennessee
The Tennessee Titans have officially hired Robert Saleh as their new head coach, following a tumultuous season that saw the firing of Brian Callahan. Saleh, previously the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers and head coach of the New York Jets, is now tasked with assembling a new coaching staff, particularly focusing on the offensive coordinator position. This role is critical as Saleh is known for his defensive expertise, and the Titans aim to develop their young quarterback, Cam Ward, who was the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Brian Daboll's Potential Move to Tennessee
Brian Daboll, the former head coach of the New York Giants and previously the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, is a leading candidate for the Titans' offensive coordinator position. Reports indicate that if Daboll does not secure the head coaching role with the Bills—following the firing of Sean McDermott—he is expected to join Saleh's staff in Tennessee. Daboll's experience includes a successful tenure in Buffalo, where he played a pivotal role in developing quarterback Josh Allen, leading the Bills to significant offensive achievements.
The Titans' Coaching Search
The Titans' coaching search has been extensive, with Saleh being one of 16 candidates interviewed for the head coaching position. His hiring marks a new direction for the franchise, which has struggled offensively in recent years. The offensive coordinator hire will be scrutinized closely, as it will be crucial for maximizing Ward's potential and improving the team's overall performance.
Competition for Daboll
While Daboll is a frontrunner for the Titans' offensive coordinator role, he has also attracted interest from the Philadelphia Eagles, who are seeking a replacement for Kevin Patullo. However, sources indicate that Daboll's primary focus is on the Bills' head coaching position. If he does not land that job, the Titans are poised to offer him a significant opportunity to lead their offense.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Daboll's impressive resume, his recent performance with the Giants, where he posted a 20-40-1 record, raises questions about his effectiveness as a head coach. Critics argue that his struggles in New York could impact his desirability as an offensive coordinator. Additionally, the Eagles' interest in Daboll highlights the competitive nature of the coaching landscape, as they seek to revitalize their offense after a disappointing season.
Official Statements & Responses
The Titans have not yet made an official announcement regarding their coaching staff, but the expectation is that Saleh will prioritize hiring an offensive coordinator who can effectively develop Cam Ward. Meanwhile, Daboll's aspirations for a head coaching role may influence his decision-making in the coming days.
What's Next?
As the Titans finalize their coaching staff, the focus will remain on whether Daboll will accept the offensive coordinator position or pursue the head coaching role with the Bills. The outcome of these decisions will significantly impact the Titans' strategy moving forward, especially in their efforts to develop Cam Ward into a franchise quarterback.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If he doesn’t land it, Daboll is expected to wind up in Tennessee as the offensive coordinator for Cam Ward and the Titans, per sources.” — Dianna Russini, The Athletic
- “The offensive coordinator hire will be crucial, as Saleh is a defensive-minded coach.” — The Tennessean
- “Brian Daboll Passed On The Philadelphia Eagles OC Job Daboll’s relationship with Hurts, which was built during their one season together at the University of Alabama, was considered a huge advantage.” — Heavy.com
- “Daboll is expected to interview for the Buffalo Bills head coaching job.” — USA Today
