Photo Credit: AP Photo/George Walker IV
After a disappointing 3-14 season, the Tennessee Titans have decided to make major changes in hopes of turning their franchise into a contender. The shake-up began with parting ways with GM Ran Carthon earlier this month, ending his two-year tenure. The team then launched an extensive general manager search, led by Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker.
Following a process that included 10 virtual interviews and six in-person meetings, the Titans introduced Mike Borgonzi as their new general manager during a press conference on Wednesday.
Borgonzi’s Background
Borgonzi brings 16 years of experience with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he rose through the ranks. He served as assistant general manager for the last four seasons, following stints as director of football operations and director of player personnel. Borgonzi joined the Chiefs in 2009 as a college scouting administrator and steadily worked his way up the organization.
Before his NFL career, Borgonzi worked as assistant recruiting coordinator at Boston College from 2007 to 2008, where he helped the team reach two ACC Championship games and win the 2007 Champs Sports Bowl.
During his time in Kansas City, Borgonzi learned from notable leaders like former Chiefs GM John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid. Both played key roles in shaping Borgonzi’s approach to building a winning organization.
“I was fortunate to be part of a winning culture that [Reid] instilled every day,” Borgonzi said.
Familiarity with the Packers’ Philosophy
Borgonzi’s connection to the Green Bay Packers’ organizational philosophy—through Dorsey and Reid—was a significant factor in his hiring. Brinker, who spent years in the Packers’ front office before joining the Titans in 2023, shared a similar approach to team building.
“Mike learned [the Packers’] system from John Dorsey in Kansas City, Andy Reed was in Green Bay at one time,” Brinker explained. “So when Mike and I sit down and when we talk and we talk about a player … we speak the same language.”
Brinker emphasized the importance of the “draft, develop, retain” philosophy—a strategy rooted in patience, discipline, and a long-term vision.
Draft First, Free Agency Second
Borgonzi will have to move quickly, with free agency set to begin on March 12. While the Titans will explore free-agent options, Brinker stressed that the draft will be the foundation of the roster.
“The foundation of our roster is going to be built through the draft, and we’re going to be selective in free agency,” Brinker said.
Head coach Brian Callahan also understands the impact of drafting well. During his time as the offensive coordinator for the Bengals, the 2020 draft transformed Cincinnati. The team selected Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Logan Wilson, key players who elevated the franchise to contender status.
However, the Titans face challenges in the upcoming draft, with only two picks in the top 100 (No. 1 and No. 35). Their third-round pick was traded to the Chiefs as part of the deal to acquire cornerback L’Jarius Sneed.
“I would love to have 30 picks over the next three years and 12 of those picks come from the top 100,” Brinker said.
Over the next three drafts, the Titans have only eight top-100 picks, putting pressure on Borgonzi to maximize their value.
Leadership Alignment
The Titans’ recent struggles—winning only nine of their last 34 games—have prompted owner Amy Adams Strunk to take action. Over the past three seasons, she has replaced a head coach or general manager every year.
“It starts with being 3-14 and winning nine games over the last 34,” said Titans CEO Burke Nihill. “The assessment that Amy’s done is to go from a three-win team to a championship football team, we need to reevaluate the experience set and the skillset of the general manager position.”
Brinker and Adams Strunk envision a leadership team that is fully aligned across coaching, scouting, and ownership. Borgonzi will oversee personnel decisions, set draft and free-agency strategies, and integrate the coaching staff into the process.
“My vision as a team builder is to draft and develop,” Borgonzi said. “We want to build a foundation of homegrown talent and reward those players that meet our standards.”
The Road Ahead
Although Borgonzi will report to Brinker, the new GM will play a significant role in reshaping the Titans’ roster and identity.
“We’re hiring Mike to do that job,” Brinker said. “I’m trying to hire the best general manager that I can possibly find to build this roster, and I want to build it with him.”
With Borgonzi’s experience, Brinker’s guidance, and a commitment to the draft, the Titans hope to establish a foundation for sustained success. Now, the challenge is to turn that vision into reality.
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This report used information from ESPN.
