Introduction

The Tennessee Titans have made headlines by dismissing their general manager, Ran Carthon, on Tuesday. With this change, team owner Amy Adams Strunk has handed oversight of all football-related operations to Chad Brinker, the newly appointed president of football operations. Interestingly, Brinker was previously Carthon’s assistant GM and has now moved into a more prominent, decision-making role.

While the landscape looks challenging for the next GM—who, under these unusual circumstances, will not actually hold the title of GM nor will he have the autonomy to make decisions about the head coach—it remains an enticing opportunity for qualified candidates. After all, the Titans will benefit from having the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a pivotal advantage that could lure in potential successors despite the team's recent struggles. Moreover, the New York Jets are the only other franchise seeking a new GM this offseason, and their internal chaos might make the Titans’ situation seem relatively stable by comparison.

Top Contenders

Considering this context, here are three potential successors for Carthon:

1. Jon-Eric Sullivan, Green Bay Packers VP of Player Personnel

Sullivan’s history with the Titans’ current president, Chad Brinker, makes him a frontrunner for the role. Having spent 13 seasons together with the Packers, it’s reasonable to expect that Brinker might prefer someone he trusts, ensuring a smoother transition and collaboration for the team’s future. Sullivan’s vast experience, including roles as co-director of player personnel and director of college scouting, positions him as a strong candidate who could bring valuable continuity and cohesion to the Titans' front office.

2. Ian Cunningham, Chicago Bears Assistant GM

Cunningham is a familiar face, having been interviewed by the Titans before the hiring of Carthon. With a solid reputation and experience under his belt, the Titans may consider giving him another chance. Despite the Bears experiencing a disappointing season and undergoing coaching changes, Cunningham’s persistence within the organization shows his loyalty and expertise. If the Titans were to reach out again, they could secure a candidate ready to prove himself under new circumstances.

3. Mike Borgonzi, Kansas City Chiefs Assistant GM

Borgonzi represents the big swing the Titans need. He has consistently turned down GM opportunities in the past, choosing to build a winning culture with the Chiefs alongside coaching stalwarts like Andy Reid and standout players like Patrick Mahomes. However, the allure of leading a franchise with the top pick in an upcoming draft may just pique his interest. If the Titans publicly express their desire to interview him, it could spark a conversation that might lead Borgonzi to consider a new chapter in his career.

Conclusion

With the Titans at a critical juncture, the choice of their next GM could significantly influence the direction of the franchise. The upcoming offseason promises to be a pivotal moment for anyone stepping into this role as they work to revitalize a team in search of success. The question remains: who will rise to the challenge and take the Titans back to the top?