7 NFL Head Coaches on the Hot Seat in 2016
Mike Mularkey, Tennessee Titans
I never believe in one-and-dones. I was still surprised that the San Francisco 49ers canned Jim Tomsula this year after just one season, even though it was clear they were looking for a scapegoat to blame the disintegration of their roster on. That’s why I will be somewhat surprised if the Tennessee Titans fire Mike Mularkey after just one year on the job.
It wouldn’t be the first time it’s happened: Mularkey led the 2012 Jacksonville Jaguars team that went 2-14 and put up the eighth-worst nERD score since 2000. He was promptly let go after just one year with the team. These Titans have a lot more going for them, however, despite coming off a two-year period with just five combined wins. Quarterback Marcus Mariota has his rookie year under his belt, and -- despite their apparent knuckleheadedness -- the wide receivers are talented and young. Given some time to develop and gel, this could be a strong offense.
The defense is coming off an 18th-place Adjusted Defensive NEP per play finish in 2015, and they have made some strong moves to shore up their defensive backfield, which ranked 29th in Adjusted Defensive Passing NEP per play. Third-round rookie safety Kevin Byard should contribute soon enough, and veteran free safety Rashad Johnson gives them the centerfielder they need next to strong safety DaNorris Searcy. This team is moving in the right direction; if they don’t produce results, though, it could be déjà vu for Mularkey.
Seat Heat: 3 “Scorchios” out of 5. I won’t be surprised if the Titans give Mularkey a real shot to guide this team into a contending position. I also won’t be shocked if they decide to move on quickly, given the rumors we’ve heard of ownership selling the franchise and Mularkey’s own track record.
