The Tennessee Titans made a significant shake-up on Tuesday by firing general manager Ran Carthon. In his place, team owner Amy Adams Strunk appointed Chad Brinker, the team’s president of football operations, as the primary decision-maker for all football-related matters. Brinker, who was initially brought on board by Carthon as assistant GM before being promoted, will now not only oversee football operations but also lead the search for Carthon’s replacement.
However, the next GM will be stepping into a peculiar situation. Adams Strunk has already confirmed that head coach Brian Callahan will be retained, which limits the new GM’s authority to make their own decision regarding the coaching staff. Despite these restrictions, the Titans’ GM job remains highly coveted. It is, after all, one of only 32 such positions in the NFL. Moreover, the Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a valuable asset that significantly enhances the appeal of the role. With only one other GM vacancy in the league—the New York Jets, whose organizational dysfunction is well-known—the Titans’ opening might be seen as the more attractive of the two.
After successfully landing Carthon last time, the Titans will need to carefully consider their next hire. Here are three strong candidates to succeed him:
Jon-Eric Sullivan, VP of Player Personnel, Green Bay Packers
Jon-Eric Sullivan, the vice president of player personnel for the Green Bay Packers, emerges as a logical choice. Brinker, who is now spearheading the hiring process, spent 13 years with Sullivan in Green Bay, which could make Sullivan a preferred candidate due to their established working relationship. Sullivan has gained valuable experience across multiple roles with the Packers, including co-director of player personnel and director of college scouting. A hire like Sullivan could bring much-needed continuity and chemistry to the Titans’ front office.
Ian Cunningham, Assistant GM, Chicago Bears
The Titans previously interviewed Ian Cunningham, the assistant general manager of the Chicago Bears, during their search that ultimately led to hiring Carthon. Cunningham has long been considered a rising star and a strong contender for GM roles. While the Bears endured a disappointing season in 2024, both Cunningham and GM Ryan Poles have retained their positions, suggesting confidence in their long-term vision. Cunningham may find the opportunity in Tennessee appealing, especially given the No. 1 draft pick and the chance to leave Chicago’s tumultuous environment.
Mike Borgonzi, Assistant GM, Kansas City Chiefs
Mike Borgonzi, the assistant GM for the Kansas City Chiefs, represents a high-profile, ambitious option. Borgonzi has played a critical role in helping the Chiefs build their dynasty alongside head coach Andy Reid, GM Brett Veach, and superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. While Borgonzi has consistently declined external opportunities in favor of staying in Kansas City, the Titans could attempt to lure him with the promise of overseeing a rebuild centered on the No. 1 overall draft pick. Still, it remains uncertain whether Borgonzi would be willing to leave a championship-caliber organization for Tennessee, especially with Brinker having final authority.
The Titans’ decision will not only shape the future of their front office but also set the tone for their rebuild as they look to turn things around after a disappointing 2024 season.
