The Tennessee Titans have always been a team with a passionate and loyal fanbase. Over the years, the franchise has built a reputation for tough, hard-nosed football, particularly under the leadership of head coach Mike Vrabel. As the NFL season approaches, Titans fans are feeling increasingly confident about their team’s prospects, especially in terms of hitting the over on season win totals and expectations for the year. A combination of solid roster moves, improved coaching, and an optimistic outlook has fans thinking this could be the year the Titans take a step forward, not just in terms of competitiveness, but in the overall trajectory of the franchise.
Looking back on the Titans’ 2024 campaign, the season was a rollercoaster. Injuries, inconsistency at quarterback, and struggles in certain areas led to an underwhelming performance overall. However, there were bright spots. The defense, led by defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, continued to be a dominant force in the NFL, ranking in the top 10 in total defense. Players like Jeffrey Simmons, Kevin Byard, and Harold Landry showed that the Titans could still compete defensively with some of the league’s best. The offense, while struggling at times, showed signs of life, especially with the development of young talent and the presence of star running back Derrick Henry.
But as the 2025 season looms large, Titans fans are more confident than ever that this is a team that will exceed expectations. One of the main reasons for this optimism is the health of key players. Derrick Henry, widely regarded as one of the best running backs in NFL history, is coming off another strong season despite being in the later stages of his career. Fans are hoping that Henry can maintain his form and continue to be a workhorse for the offense, especially with the growing emphasis on the run game under offensive coordinator Tim Kelly. Henry’s ability to wear down opposing defenses and create big plays remains a key part of the Titans’ formula for success.
But it’s not just Henry that has fans excited about the Titans’ prospects. The team’s decision to bring in a new quarterback has breathed new life into the fanbase. Ryan Tannehill, while serviceable at times, showed his age in 2024. In his place, the Titans drafted rookie quarterback Levis Willingham, who impressed in training camp with his strong arm and quick decision-making. Fans believe that Willingham’s potential is significant enough to lead the team to greater heights, offering an upgrade over Tannehill’s steady, but unspectacular, play. The rookie signal-caller’s mobility and ability to stretch the field with his arm could be the spark the offense needs to become more dynamic and unpredictable.
Another significant aspect contributing to the optimism surrounding the Titans is the improvement on the offensive line. The offensive line has been a focal point of concern for the franchise over the past few seasons, as injuries and lackluster play in key positions often left the running game stifled and the passing game exposed. However, the Titans made significant strides in free agency and the draft to improve this unit. With the additions of high-profile free agents and the continued development of young talent like Nicholas Petit-Frere and Peter Skoronski, the offensive line should be much improved in 2025. Better protection for Willingham will be critical, as will creating lanes for Henry to run through, ensuring the Titans can establish a balanced offense that keeps opposing defenses on their toes.
Defensively, the Titans remain one of the league’s most formidable units. Head coach Mike Vrabel has built his reputation on the back of his defense, and 2025 should be no different. The defensive line, led by the dominant Simmons, is as fearsome as ever. Simmons is one of the premier interior defensive linemen in the NFL and a game-changer who can disrupt opposing offenses on his own. Alongside him, Landry is coming off an injury-riddled 2024 season and is poised to return to his pre-injury form, providing another dangerous edge rusher. The Titans’ secondary is also a strength, with Byard continuing to be one of the top safeties in the NFL and young players like Kristian Fulton and Caleb Farley continuing to develop into key contributors.
Despite the strength of the defense, the Titans’ success in 2025 will largely come down to the improvement of the offense, specifically the passing game. In recent years, the Titans’ offense has been too one-dimensional, relying too heavily on Henry and the ground game. While this formula has worked at times, it has also been exposed by teams with strong defenses and capable quarterbacks. Willingham’s ability to find rhythm in the passing game will be critical. The Titans’ wide receiver group, led by veteran Robert Woods, will need to step up as well. Second-year player Treylon Burks has shown flashes of brilliance and could be the breakout star that the offense desperately needs. If Burks can develop into a reliable weapon alongside Woods and others, it will open up opportunities for the offense to thrive.
Titans fans are also excited about the overall coaching staff. Vrabel’s ability to get the best out of his players and put them in positions to succeed is well documented. He has instilled a culture of toughness and resilience in Tennessee, which has helped the Titans remain competitive even in seasons where the roster wasn’t stacked with superstars. With the added benefit of Kelly’s offensive expertise and the defensive prowess of Bowen, fans believe the Titans are well-equipped to make a significant run in the AFC South and possibly even compete for a playoff berth.
The Titans’ division rivals also play a role in the optimism surrounding the team. The AFC South has long been considered one of the more unpredictable divisions in the NFL, and while the Jacksonville Jaguars are the reigning division champions, the Titans have the roster and coaching staff to challenge for the top spot. The Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts, while rebuilding, are still capable of causing problems for any team on any given week, but fans believe the Titans are simply more talented and better prepared. If Tennessee can stay healthy and avoid the pitfalls of past seasons, the Titans could very well take control of the division and position themselves for a playoff berth.
All of these factors contribute to a sense of excitement and confidence among Titans fans. There is a belief that the team is on the right path, with solid leadership, a defense that can win games, and an offense that, while still a work in progress, has the potential to be more dynamic and versatile than in years past. For the first time in a while, fans are not only hopeful but optimistic about the season ahead. With a capable quarterback under center, a proven defense, and a running back in Henry who can still dominate the league, the Titans are primed for a season that could exceed expectations. The sense of confidence surrounding the over on the season win total reflects the growing belief that the team has the tools to make a serious run. Titans fans are ready to see their team back at the top of the AFC South and possibly even making noise in the playoffs, setting the stage for what could be a memorable and successful 2025 campaign.