In order to address a pressing need in Tennessee, new Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi might make a big impression by hiring an appealing former Vols player.

The Tennessee Titans, a proud franchise in the National Football League (NFL), have experienced an array of challenges over the past few seasons. From navigating roster changes to grappling with inconsistent performances, the Titans have been in search of the right formula to return to their championship-contending ways. The recent hiring of Mike Borgonzi as the team’s new general manager presents a pivotal moment for the organization. With his deep background in player evaluation and team-building strategy, Borgonzi is tasked with making crucial decisions that will shape the future of the Titans.

One particular avenue that Borgonzi might explore as he seeks to address key needs within the team is the possibility of bringing in a familiar face—someone who has deep roots in Tennessee football and could resonate with the fanbase. Enter a former Vols player, an individual who not only brings a wealth of talent but also the kind of local appeal that could invigorate both the team and the community. By leveraging his understanding of the local landscape and the fanbase’s passions, Borgonzi has the potential to make a splash by hiring a former University of Tennessee (UT) player.

1. Mike Borgonzi’s Arrival as General Manager: A New Era for the Titans

Mike Borgonzi’s appointment as general manager marks the beginning of a new era for the Titans. Having previously served in various roles with the Kansas City Chiefs, including as the director of player personnel, Borgonzi has a strong track record in evaluating talent and building successful rosters. The Chiefs’ recent success—including winning Super Bowl LIV and making regular playoff appearances—demonstrates Borgonzi’s ability to contribute to a high-performing organization.

For the Titans, Borgonzi’s task is clear: to build a team capable of competing consistently at a high level in the competitive AFC South and beyond. While Tennessee has had moments of success, including an AFC Championship appearance in 2019 and consistent playoff contention, the Titans have struggled to maintain that level of performance, especially as key players age and injuries mount.

Borgonzi’s first order of business will likely be to address pressing needs on both sides of the ball, with particular emphasis on areas like the offensive line, wide receiver corps, and defensive secondary. This is where a former Vols player could come into play.

2. The State of the Titans: What Are Their Pressing Needs?

For a team like the Tennessee Titans, which has made its mark on the league with a run-heavy offense and a solid defense, it’s no surprise that they’ve experienced both highs and lows. While quarterback Ryan Tannehill has been solid, and running back Derrick Henry is still one of the league’s top performers, the Titans’ offense has often struggled to maintain balance. A lack of a high-impact wide receiver group has been a consistent issue, and the Titans have failed to consistently support Henry in the ground game with the necessary complementary pieces.

The defense has been slightly more reliable but remains inconsistent at times. Areas such as pass rush, cornerback depth, and safety need significant improvement to ensure the Titans can compete with high-powered offenses in the AFC. Whether it’s through free agency, the draft, or trade acquisitions, Borgonzi will be expected to bolster these units and bring in players who can contribute immediately.

In this context, Borgonzi will also need to make moves that resonate with the fanbase—an often overlooked but crucial part of the equation for a team’s long-term success. As the Titans try to solidify their identity as a top-tier NFL team, connecting with the local fanbase and tapping into regional pride can’t be underestimated. One possible avenue for Borgonzi to make a statement and boost fan morale is by bringing in a former Vols player who has the talent to contribute on the field and the local appeal to energize the fanbase.

3. The Appeal of Hiring a Former Vols Player: A Strategic Decision

The Tennessee Titans are already inextricably tied to the state of Tennessee, and the team’s fanbase is particularly passionate about players who hail from the Volunteer State. As one of the most storied college football programs in the country, the University of Tennessee has produced a number of high-caliber players who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL. These players, many of whom grew up in Tennessee or surrounding areas, maintain strong ties to the state, making them appealing targets for the Titans in both a football and public relations sense.

A former Vols player would offer several potential advantages for the Titans:

a. Connection to the Community and Fanbase

The emotional and regional connection between fans of the Tennessee Titans and the University of Tennessee cannot be overstated. A former Vols player, especially one with a notable college career, would be welcomed with open arms by the local fanbase. This player would bring an element of familiarity and pride that could galvanize fans, who are always eager to see homegrown talent succeed at the professional level. Borgonzi, who is tasked with not only building a competitive team but also fostering a positive relationship with the community, could make a big impression by making this type of strategic move.

b. Player Familiarity with the State’s Football Culture

Players who come from Tennessee high schools and the University of Tennessee have a deep understanding of the local football culture. This shared experience provides an invaluable resource, as these athletes know what it means to represent the state and can connect with fans in ways that out-of-state players cannot. A former Vols player would bring a sense of familiarity to the team’s locker room, helping to foster a culture of unity and shared purpose within the organization.

c. Youthful Energy and Motivation

A former Vols player, particularly one who is still in the early years of his NFL career, could bring fresh energy and drive to the Titans. These players are often eager to prove themselves at the highest level of competition and have something to prove—both to themselves and their fans. This determination and work ethic could serve as a boost to the Titans as they continue to push toward becoming a perennial contender.

4. Potential Former Vols Players for the Titans: Who Could Fit the Bill?

Given the needs of the Titans and the potential for bringing in a former Vols player, several former Tennessee stars might be considered for a return to the state. While many former Vols players are currently in the NFL, the following individuals stand out as possible fits for the Titans.

a. Jalin Hyatt (Wide Receiver, New York Giants)

Jalin Hyatt, a wide receiver for the New York Giants, is one of the most exciting young talents to come out of the University of Tennessee in recent years. Hyatt was a standout at UT, setting records for touchdowns and receptions and earning the 2022 Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s best wide receiver. His blazing speed and ability to stretch the field would immediately address a pressing need for the Titans at the wide receiver position.

The Titans have long struggled to find a consistent deep threat to complement Derrick Henry’s dominance in the running game. Hyatt’s speed and playmaking ability could transform Tennessee’s offense and provide Tannehill with a legitimate weapon on the outside. Hyatt’s connection to Tennessee, both as a former Vols player and a state native, makes him an ideal candidate to generate excitement among the fanbase while also addressing an on-field need.

b. Alontae Taylor (Cornerback, New Orleans Saints)

Alontae Taylor, a cornerback for the New Orleans Saints, is another former Vols player who could make a significant impact for the Titans. Taylor was known for his physicality and ability to lock down wide receivers during his time at Tennessee, and he has translated those skills into success at the NFL level. With the Titans’ defensive secondary in need of a boost, Taylor’s ability to contribute immediately could be invaluable.

The Titans have had trouble finding a reliable cornerback to consistently match up against elite wide receivers, and Taylor’s familiarity with the Tennessee football culture could make him a natural fit. Bringing in a player like Taylor would solidify the defense and appeal to fans who are excited about seeing another former Vols star thrive in the NFL.

c. Bryce Thompson (Safety, Free Agent)

Bryce Thompson, a free-agent safety who previously played for the New Orleans Saints and has had brief stints with other NFL teams, could be an intriguing option for the Titans. Thompson was a standout safety at the University of Tennessee, and his skill set would add much-needed depth to the Titans’ secondary. With an eye on bolstering the defensive backfield, Borgonzi could explore the possibility of bringing Thompson back to Tennessee as a veteran presence.

Thompson’s experience, paired with his knowledge of the Tennessee football landscape, could provide a strong boost to the Titans’ defense, particularly in their quest to defend against high-powered offenses in the AFC. His familiarity with the state would also serve as an asset in connecting with fans.