The Tennessee Titans have taken a significant step in their search for a new general manager, completing a virtual interview on Friday with Reggie McKenzie, the senior personnel executive for the Miami Dolphins. This interview marks an important milestone in the Titans’ ongoing process to fill the vacant GM position, a role that has become crucial for the direction of the franchise moving forward. As the Titans aim to rebuild and retool for the future, the choice of a new GM is seen as pivotal in determining the team’s trajectory in the coming years.
Mike Borgonzi is a well-respected figure in NFL circles, known for his keen eye for talent and extensive experience in personnel management. McKenzie’s background in the league includes a long tenure as the general manager of the Oakland Raiders, where he was credited with assembling a team that, despite some challenges, showed signs of improvement during his time in charge. His track record also extends to his current role with the Dolphins, where he has been integral in helping to shape a competitive roster that has seen significant progress in recent seasons.
The interview with McKenzie is part of a broader process that the Titans have undertaken to find a new general manager following the departure of Jon Robinson. Robinson, who had been with the Titans since 2016, was instrumental in building the team into a consistent playoff contender. However, following a series of disappointing seasons, especially in terms of roster construction and on-field results, the Titans made the decision to part ways with Robinson, prompting the need for a fresh perspective at the helm of the team’s front office.
The Titans’ search for a new general manager has been thorough, with several candidates reportedly being considered for the role. McKenzie, however, stands out as a prominent figure with the type of experience that could be invaluable in helping to reshape the Titans’ roster. His ability to identify and acquire key talent through both the draft and free agency is one of his most noted strengths, and this aligns with the Titans’ current needs as they look to make significant upgrades in several areas, including the offensive line, wide receiver, and defensive backfield.
The timing of McKenzie’s interview also comes at a crucial point for the Titans. With head coach Mike Vrabel remaining in place, it’s clear that the next general manager will need to collaborate closely with Vrabel to build a roster that fits his vision for the team. Vrabel has been a steady leader since taking over as head coach in 2018, but the team’s recent struggles, particularly in the latter half of this season, have highlighted the need for better personnel decisions and roster construction. The new GM will likely have the challenging task of balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability, especially as key players on the roster, such as quarterback Ryan Tannehill and running back Derrick Henry, continue to age.
Reggie McKenzie’s experience in working with high-level talent and building teams in both the NFL and college ranks gives him a unique perspective on how to address the Titans’ needs. His ability to evaluate talent, make tough decisions regarding personnel, and manage a salary cap is critical in an NFL landscape where cap space and roster flexibility are often just as important as drafting well. The Titans’ roster, which currently features a blend of veteran players and young talent, will need the right kind of leadership to help it reach its full potential, and McKenzie could be the right person to provide that leadership.
The Titans have reportedly been thorough in their search for a new GM, having conducted several interviews with candidates from a variety of backgrounds. McKenzie, with his vast experience and impressive track record in player evaluation and team-building, represents one of the more experienced candidates for the role. While his time with the Raiders was not without its challenges, McKenzie’s ability to navigate difficult situations and rebuild franchises gives him a strong case to take the reins in Tennessee.
As the Titans continue their search, it is clear that they are looking for a general manager who can provide a clear vision for the future, make astute personnel decisions, and work in harmony with Vrabel to build a team that can return to playoff contention. While McKenzie’s interview is just one part of the process, it signals that the Titans are considering candidates with a wealth of experience and a proven ability to turn teams around. The interview also serves as a reminder of the importance of the GM position in shaping the future of an NFL team, especially for a franchise that is looking to bounce back from a period of underperformance.
In the coming days and weeks, the Titans are expected to continue their search, with more interviews and evaluations of potential candidates. Whether McKenzie emerges as the top choice remains to be seen, but his interview undoubtedly puts him in the mix for a role that will require a strong understanding of talent evaluation, team building, and long-term vision. As the Titans prepare for the next chapter in their history, the decision of who will fill the general manager role could be one of the most important moves the franchise makes in the near future.