NFL Combine Notebook: Titans Add an Assistant Coach, Praise for QB Coach Bo Hardegree, and a Nod to Treylon Burks
As the NFL Combine wraps up, the Tennessee Titans have made some noteworthy moves and statements, shedding light on the direction they intend to take for the 2025 season. Among the significant developments are the addition of a new assistant coach, praise for the team’s quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree, and a spotlight on the potential development of wide receiver Treylon Burks. These changes and acknowledgments reflect a mix of continuity and growth as the Titans look to build a stronger team ahead of the upcoming season.
Titans Add an Assistant Coach: A New Voice for the Defense
One of the more intriguing announcements during the NFL Combine was the addition of a new assistant coach to the Titans’ staff. While the team had been relatively quiet about specific coaching changes, the addition of this new assistant marks an important step in their ongoing efforts to improve both the offense and defense. The identity of the assistant coach has not been disclosed yet, but the addition is expected to strengthen a defense that, while competitive, has experienced its fair share of inconsistencies in recent seasons.
This coaching change reflects the Titans’ commitment to continued improvement on defense. With a defensive-minded head coach in Mike Vrabel, the team has built its identity around a tough, hard-hitting defense, but there have been gaps—particularly in the secondary and linebacker units—that have held them back from reaching their full potential. Bringing in a new voice is an indication that the Titans are looking to fine-tune their approach and build a defense that can compete with the AFC’s best.
Adding an assistant coach could also help address concerns about the Titans’ ability to develop younger players. As the team transitions from some of its veteran stalwarts, developing a new generation of talent becomes crucial. A fresh perspective and expertise on defense could be exactly what the team needs to turn things around in 2025.
Praise for QB Coach Bo Hardegree: A Steady Hand Amid Change
Among the most consistent and positive comments during the NFL Combine were those about the Titans’ quarterbacks coach, Bo Hardegree. Hardegree, who has been with the Titans since 2022, has continued to receive praise for his work with the team’s quarterbacks, especially in the wake of their ongoing search for a long-term solution under center. With Tannehill’s future uncertain and Malik Willis still developing, Hardegree’s coaching has been instrumental in helping these quarterbacks grow.
Hardegree’s impact was underscored by several key figures within the organization, including head coach Mike Vrabel. Vrabel emphasized Hardegree’s ability to communicate effectively with quarterbacks and develop their mechanics, mental approach, and decision-making skills. Hardegree has played a pivotal role in helping both Ryan Tannehill and Malik Willis refine their games, and he’s been praised for his ability to maintain a calm, steady hand in an often chaotic position.
Although Tannehill’s tenure as the team’s starting quarterback may be nearing its end, Hardegree’s work has been vital in preparing the next generation. In particular, Willis’ development has been a point of emphasis this offseason. Hardegree has worked tirelessly with Willis on improving his accuracy, footwork, and decision-making. While the young quarterback’s raw talent is evident, his development has been slow but steady, and Hardegree’s coaching style has been a stabilizing force in that progression.
Hardegree’s importance will only increase as the team continues to navigate the quarterback position. His ability to work with young players and develop them into capable starters will be key, especially if the Titans decide to make a move for a new quarterback in the draft or free agency. His consistent presence and coaching expertise have been a breath of fresh air for the Titans, and it’s clear that the organization values his work deeply.
Treylon Burks: The Focus of Optimism
One of the most exciting players to watch heading into the 2025 season is wide receiver Treylon Burks. After a promising rookie season in 2022, Burks had a rollercoaster year in 2023, battling injuries and inconsistency. However, the Titans remain highly optimistic about his future, and his performance at the Combine was one of the highlights for the team’s front office and coaching staff.
Burks showed flashes of his potential during the 2023 season, but injuries and a lack of chemistry with the quarterbacks held him back from fully breaking out. As the Titans entered the offseason, many had questions about his development and how the team would use him in the coming year. Fortunately, Burks’ focus, work ethic, and upside have been key talking points at the Combine, where he demonstrated an ability to stretch the field and make contested catches.
Several insiders have noted that Burks looks to be in excellent shape, having made significant strides in his conditioning. He has worked closely with the Titans’ strength and conditioning staff to enhance his durability and stamina, a key focus for a player who was often sidelined in his first two years. His size, speed, and ability to make plays at all levels of the field have made him one of the most promising young receivers in the league, and the Titans are hopeful that he will emerge as a true No. 1 option in their passing attack.
Another reason for optimism surrounding Burks is the potential growth in the team’s offensive philosophy. With the addition of new offensive pieces and possibly a new quarterback under center, Burks could thrive in a system designed to make the most of his abilities. The Titans’ offense has been known for its reliance on the run game, but if they can find a way to incorporate more passing schemes that highlight Burks’ deep threat, he could take a giant leap forward in his development.
The Combine was an opportunity for Burks to showcase not just his physical abilities but also his mental approach to the game. Several teammates and coaching staff members have praised Burks’ work ethic and maturity, especially considering his challenges early in his career. Burks appears focused on improving his game, and this mentality will serve him well as he continues to evolve as a receiver in the NFL.
Looking Ahead: Titans Focus on Growth and Development
As the NFL Combine draws to a close, the Titans have a lot to feel optimistic about. The addition of an assistant coach to their staff signals that they are committed to improving their defense, while the praise for quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree illustrates the importance of player development at the quarterback position. Most exciting of all, however, is the attention being given to Treylon Burks, who represents the future of the Titans’ passing attack.
The Titans are clearly in a phase of growth and development. While they are not yet positioned as an elite team in the AFC, the moves they make during this offseason could have a significant impact on their long-term success. If Burks can make the leap to a top-tier wide receiver, if the new assistant coach can help the defense take a step forward, and if Hardegree can continue to nurture the quarterbacks into competent leaders, the Titans could be back in playoff contention sooner than expected.
There’s still much work to be done as the Titans head into the 2025 season, but their approach at the Combine shows that they are focused on building a team with a strong foundation for the future. With strategic coaching changes, emphasis on player development, and an eye on key positions, Tennessee is poised for a critical offseason that could set the stage for a promising year ahead.