The Tennessee Titans are mere weeks away from getting the search for their next head coach officially underway. GM Mike Borgonzi, president Chad Brinker, and their extremely small circle of confidants have been busy putting together a shortlist of candidates they’d like to interview. The Titans can begin interviewing prospective options in January.
National reporter Dianna Russini recently provided an update on the Titans’ coaching search. Russini dropped seven names that the Titans supposedly possess interest in. Among those names are Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile.
The Titans are undoubtedly searching high and low for the best option to be Brian Callahan’s permanent successor. The most intriguing candidate may be hidden in plain sight within their own AFC South division. Coach Campanile should be a serious contender.
Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile should be a serious Titans HC contender
The 11-4 Jaguars have won six consecutive contests. They sit atop the AFC South and appear headed to clinch the divisional crown. Campanile’s defense is a big reason why. The Jaguars currently own the NFL’s stingiest run defense, allowing a league-low 87.3 rushing yards per game.
The Jaguars don’t possess a super-talented defense on paper. Not a single Jaguars defender qualified for the 2026 Pro Bowl Games. That strongly indicates Coach Campanile has his defense performing above expectations.
Campanile also possesses some intriguing ties to the Titans that could help make him a candidate. He spent four seasons (2020-23) alongside Titans front-office executive Reggie McKenzie in Miami with the Dolphins. Both Campanile and Borgonzi also spent separate stints at Boston College, possibly indicating they’ve crossed paths due to their shared bond.
Given Campanile’s defensive-minded nature, the Titans would be interested in hearing his plan to develop franchise quarterback Cam Ward. Campanile has some connections to potential offensive coordinators. He currently coaches with, or previously coached with, three OCs who don’t call plays for their current employer.
Grant Udinski (Jaguars), Adam Stenavich (Packers), and Frank Smith (Dolphins) could be interested in joining Campanile so they could add play-calling duties to their resumes. It’s worth noting Campanile also coached with Matt LaFleur in Green Bay and Mike McDaniel in Miami. If either one gets fired, they too could become a possible offensive coordinator candidate.
Expect Campanile to garner head coaching interest around the league this offseason. His Jaguars defense is firing on all cylinders. The Titans should request an interview with Campanile when NFL rules permit.