The Tennessee Titans have made a series of strategic moves in their front office, reflecting a commitment to building a competitive edge in the NFL. These changes, announced in the aftermath of the 2026 NFL Draft, include both external hires and internal promotions, each bringing unique expertise and experience to the team's operations.
One notable addition is Shane Normandeau, who joins as director, pro scout. Normandeau's return to the personnel side of the game is significant, having previously worked as a pro scout for the Vikings and as a football operations coordinator in Cleveland. His experience in both scouting and operations provides a well-rounded perspective, which could be invaluable for the Titans' player evaluation and development strategies.
Another key hire is Shepley Heard, who comes to the Titans after a 21-year tenure with the Atlanta Falcons. Heard's journey through various scouting roles, from assistant to director of pro personnel, showcases a deep understanding of the player selection process. His experience in multiple roles across different regions of the country will likely contribute to a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to scouting.
The Titans' promotions within the personnel department are also noteworthy. Mike Boni, an experienced NFL scout with a strong connection to the team, has been promoted to director, college scouting. Boni's 20 years of NFL experience, including nine with the Titans, make him a valuable asset in identifying and developing top college talent.
Patrick Woo, a rising star in the scouting department, has been elevated to manager, college/pro scouting. Woo's rapid progression through the ranks, including his third promotion this year, indicates a strong performance and a bright future with the team.
The data analytics department saw a significant change with the departure of Sarah Bailey, who was director of football research and development. Bailey's move to the Los Angeles Rams, where she started as a football analyst and rose to manager of football analytics, highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in modern football.
In operations, the Titans have promoted Nick Hardesty and Kieran Gilbert to director and coordinator, team operations, respectively. Hardesty's prior experience in football operations with the University of Tennessee adds a layer of continuity and institutional knowledge to the team's operations.
These changes collectively demonstrate the Titans' proactive approach to team building and development. By integrating new perspectives, promoting internal talent, and adapting to the evolving landscape of football analytics, the Titans are positioning themselves for success in the highly competitive NFL.
