The Tennessee Titans are nearing the finish line of their head coaching search, but the process has sparked backlash from someone who knows the building well. As finalists emerge and interviews wrap up, one former cornerstone believes the franchise is overlooking the most obvious answer.
That frustration spilled onto social media, and it quickly reignited debate around what the Titans value most as they prepare for a pivotal reset.
Arthur Smith’s Omission From Titans’ Coaching Candidates Triggers Backlash
Former Titans Pro Bowler Taylor Lewan didn’t mince words when reacting to the team’s reported finalist list. Responding on X, Lewan called it “insane” that Arthur Smith was not included among the final candidates.
Lewan laid out his case clearly. He pointed to Smith’s time in Tennessee, when the Titans’ offense reached historic heights. Under Smith, the unit was among the most efficient in franchise history. Lewan also emphasized Smith’s familiarity with the organization, ownership, and internal culture. In Lewan’s view, those factors matter as much as schematic fit.
“He understands this ownership and the people,” Lewan wrote. “He has learned a lot since his stint in Atlanta. He would be a great HC for the Titans.”
It’s insane Arthur Smith is not apart of this list.
– when he was at the Titans the offense was the best it’s ever been.
– understands this ownership and the people
– has learned a lot since his stint in ATLHe would be a great HC for the titans. https://t.co/44EamExXSP
— Taylor Lewan (@TaylorLewan77) January 18, 2026
Smith’s track record backs up part of that argument. As the offensive coordinator in Tennessee from 2019 to 2020, he led a group that ranked among the league’s best in points per drive and touchdown rate. In 2020, the Titans scored touchdowns on nearly 36% of their drives, one of the best figures in modern NFL history. That success helped him land a head coaching position in Atlanta.
His time with the Falcons was less fruitful. Smith went 21-30 over three seasons, finishing 7-10 each year before being dismissed. Since then, he has rebuilt his profile as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive coordinator, while continuing to draw respect for his offensive structure and adaptability.
Despite that background, the Titans’ reported finalists tell a different story. According to insider Adam Schefter, the final three candidates are Matt Nagy, Robert Saleh, and Jeff Hafley. Titans leadership even met with Nagy in Nashville over dinner Sunday night, signaling how close the process is to a conclusion.
Nagy and Saleh both bring head coaching experience, while Hafley is viewed as a rising defensive mind. Smith, meanwhile, remains outside the final group despite his deep ties to the franchise. That contrast is what fuels Lewan’s frustration.
The broader context matters. Tennessee is trying to reestablish its identity after years of offensive inconsistency and roster turnover. Some believe a familiar figure who once maximized talent could offer stability. Others argue the Titans need a clean break and a new voice.
For now, Lewan’s comments highlight the tension between institutional memory and forward-looking ambition. The Titans are expected to make a hire within days. Whether they value continuity or novelty will soon be clear.
Either way, the fact that Smith’s name still stirs such a reaction shows his Tennessee legacy hasn’t faded. And for some inside the Titans’ orbit, passing on him still doesn’t add up.
