Titans Fire Coach Brian Callahan After Calling Out No. 1 Draft Pick Cam Ward

The Tennessee Titans have parted ways with their head coach, Brian Callahan, shortly after he publicly criticized their standout quarterback, Cam Ward.

<span The Titans confirmed Callahan's dismissal on Monday, October 13, following a disappointing 1-5 start to the season. As of the latest update, the team has not announced an interim head coach to take over the responsibilities from the 41-year-old.

“Today, after extensive discussions with our owner and general manager, we informed Brian Callahan that we will be making a coaching change,” said Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker in an official statement. “These decisions are incredibly challenging, particularly when they involve individuals of high character. We are appreciative of Brian’s contributions to the Titans and the Tennessee community throughout his time as head coach. We extend our gratitude to him and his family for their exemplary representation of the Titans.”

The statement further elaborated, “We remain committed to a patient and strategic approach aimed at establishing a sustainable, winning football program, yet we have not achieved the necessary progress. Our players, fans, and community deserve a team that meets an expected standard, which we have not been fulfilling, and we are prepared to make the tough decisions required to meet that threshold.”

Callahan’s firing follows his remarks about the performance of QB Cam Ward in the aftermath of the Titans’ 20-10 defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, October 12. The Titans selected Ward, 23, as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

“I’m really disappointed with the results,” Callahan expressed to the media after the game. “We had high hopes going into the matchup. To struggle offensively and come away scoreless is frustrating. We all need to elevate our performance, including Cam, who must improve as well. It’s a collective effort; we need to coach sharper and execute better.”

He further remarked, “It’s not just on him, but he has to step up, and we hope to start seeing improved football soon.”

The Titans’ loss against the Raiders marked their fifth defeat in six games this season, with previous losses also against the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, Indianapolis Colts, and Houston Texans. Their only victory this season came against the Arizona Cardinals on October 5.

Ward’s performance in the game against the Raiders saw him completing 26 of 38 passes for 22 yards, along with an interception and two lost fumbles.

“I’m genuinely disappointed, especially with my own performance as part of the offense,” Ward told reporters following the game. “Having three turnovers eliminates your chances of winning.”

He added, “I know I can’t let that happen, but we must keep pushing forward. There are no excuses for our performance; we simply need to get better, and I have to improve as well.”

The Titans are scheduled to return to the field on Sunday, October 19, when they face the New England Patriots at home.