As of April 8, 2025, the Tennessee Titans have not officially announced a replacement for their longtime play-by-play announcer, Mike Keith, who departed earlier this year to become the “Voice of the Vols” for the University of Tennessee’s football and men’s basketball teams.
Mike Keith’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the Titans. He had been with the franchise since its relocation to Tennessee, calling 535 games over 27 years. His contributions extended beyond the broadcast booth; he was deeply involved in the community and played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity. In recognition of his impact, Titans controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk announced that Keith would be inducted into the Titans Ring of Honor.
In January 2025, reports indicated that the Titans had narrowed their search for Keith’s replacement to two primary candidates: Taylor Zarzour and J.P. Shadrick.
Taylor Zarzour is a seasoned broadcaster with experience covering college football and baseball for the SEC Network and serving as the voice of PGA Tour Radio. He also has ties to Nashville, having previously hosted the Morning Show for Sports Radio 560 in the city. Notably, legendary CBS play-by-play commentator Jim Nantz personally endorsed Zarzour’s candidacy for the Titans’ position.
J.P. Shadrick has an extensive background in sports broadcasting, working for organizations such as Westwood One Sports, the Jaguars Radio Network, and Sky Sports NFL in the United Kingdom. He brings both NFL and major college football play-by-play experience, aligning with the Titans’ priorities for the role.
As the Titans continue their search for a new play-by-play announcer, fans and analysts alike are eager to see who will step into this pivotal role. The chosen candidate will not only be the voice of the team during broadcasts but will also serve as a key ambassador for the franchise, engaging with the community and upholding the legacy established by Keith.
The role of a play-by-play announcer is multifaceted and extends beyond merely narrating the action on the field. They serve as the primary conduit between the team and its fanbase, translating the energy and nuances of the game into words that resonate with listeners. This requires not only a deep understanding of the sport but also the ability to convey emotion, context, and insight in real-time.
Mike Keith exemplified these qualities during his tenure with the Titans. His signature call, “Touchdown Titans!”, became synonymous with the team’s scoring moments, creating an indelible connection with fans. Beyond his on-air duties, Keith was instrumental in building the Titans Radio Network, expanding its reach to connect with fans across the region. His dedication to the franchise and its supporters set a high standard for his successor.
Taylor Zarzour’s background positions him as a strong contender for this role. His experience with the SEC Network and PGA Tour Radio demonstrates his versatility and ability to engage audiences across different sports. His familiarity with the Nashville market, stemming from his time hosting the Morning Show for Sports Radio 560, provides him with a unique understanding of the local fanbase. Jim Nantz’s endorsement further underscores Zarzour’s credibility and potential fit with the Titans organization.
J.P. Shadrick also brings a wealth of experience to the table. His work with Westwood One Sports and the Jaguars Radio Network has given him extensive exposure to NFL broadcasting, while his involvement with Sky Sports NFL indicates his ability to connect with international audiences. Shadrick’s comprehensive understanding of both NFL and major college football dynamics aligns with the Titans’ desire for a seasoned and knowledgeable voice.
The decision-making process for selecting a new play-by-play announcer involves several considerations. The organization must assess each candidate’s broadcasting skills, familiarity with the team’s history and culture, ability to engage with the community, and vision for the role. It’s essential that the new announcer not only maintains the high standards set by Keith but also brings a fresh perspective that can enhance the fan experience.
Community engagement is a critical aspect of the play-by-play announcer’s role. Mike Keith was known for his active involvement in community initiatives, strengthening the bond between the Titans and their supporters. His successor will be expected to continue this tradition, serving as a visible and approachable representative of the franchise. This includes participating in charity events, fan forums, and other outreach programs that reinforce the team’s commitment to its community.
The evolution of media consumption also plays a role in this selection process. With the rise of digital platforms and social media, the new play-by-play announcer will need to be adept at engaging with fans across various channels. This includes creating content that resonates with a diverse audience, from traditional radio broadcasts to podcasts, live streams, and interactive social media interactions. The ability to adapt to these changing mediums will be crucial in maintaining and expanding the team’s reach.
Furthermore, the new announcer will need to build strong relationships with players, coaches, and staff to provide insightful commentary and behind-the-scenes perspectives. Establishing trust and rapport within the organization will enable the announcer to deliver content that is both informative and engaging, offering fans a deeper connection to the team.
As the Titans navigate this transition, they have the opportunity to redefine the role of their play-by-play announcer in a way that aligns with the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. Whether they choose Taylor Zarzour, J.P. Shadrick, or another candidate, the decision will undoubtedly shape the auditory identity of the franchise for years to come.
In conclusion, while the departure of Mike Keith marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Titans history, it also opens the door for new possibilities. The search for his successor is not merely about