There wasn’t a team in the NFL that had as disappointing of a finish to the 2022 season as the Tennessee Titans. They looked like they were going to run away with the AFC South title once Thanksgiving rolled around as they were 7-3 and no one else in the division was even at the .500 mark.
What followed that was one of the biggest choke jobs in recent NFL history. The Titans wouldn’t win a game for the remainder of the season, as they defeated the Green Bay Packers to kick off Week 11 on Thursday Night Football for their last victory of the season.
The Titans have no one to blame but themselves for how badly they fell off. There were some difficult matchups, but you cannot get swept by the Jacksonville Jaguars and lose to the Houston Texans if you are seriously expecting to win a division title. As a result, there have been some major changes made already.
While head coach Mike Vrabel is safe for now, members of his staff aren’t as fortunate. Black Monday, the first day after the regular season finale, certainly lived up to its name in Tennessee as four assistant coaches were fired.
Offensive coordinator Todd Downing, offensive line coach Keith Carter, secondary coach Anthony Midget and offensive skills assistant Erik Frazier. Given how each of those units produced, especially down the stretch, it should be no surprise they were relieved of their duties.
“I want to thank Todd, Keith, Anthony and Erik for their service and commitment to our team over their time here in Tennessee,” Vrabel said in a statement. “Each of them made an impact on our organization, we’re dedicated to the process and loyal members of our coaching staff.”
Tennessee’s offense was poor throughout the season despite having Derrick Henry leading the way once again on the ground. However, Downing’s inability to get the passing game on track certainly made life tough on offense.
Malik Willis looking as unprepared as he was when called upon to start games likely played a part in his firing as well. Keeping the quarterback upright was an issue throughout the season as well.
All season the Titans were among the worst pass-defense teams in the NFL, so seeing Midget be fired was likely expected. Tennessee finished last in passing yards allowed and 28th in touchdowns. The only positive was that they were playmakers, finishing 12th with 14 interceptions.
Vrabel has been great during his tenure as head coach with the Titans, but another season like the one they just completed and he could be on the hot seat. Not many head coaches survive a seven-game losing streak to blow a multi-lead game in the division.
