The Tennessee Titans have announced a few front office changes just one day after the regular season ended. The changes included parting ways with General Manager Ruston Webster and naming the team’s permanent president.
Monday, the team revealed that Steve Underwood would become the permanent team president and chief executive officer. He was previously named as the organization's interim president and CEO back in March.
The Titans also said executive VP and GM Ruston Webster's contract would not be renewed.
"It's difficult to part with someone you know and respect. I think highly of Ruston Webster, and I appreciate his contributions," said Underwood.
Webster spent four seasons with the franchise, which included locking in quarterback Marcus Mariota as the second overall draft pick last year.
It was also announced that Vice President of Football Administration Vin Marino would oversee football operations during the general manager search.
Despite finishing 2-7 under interim head coach Mike Mularkey, officials said he is still a candidate for the head coaching position. He replaced Ken Whisenhunt after the team released him on November 3.
Before coming to Tennessee, Mularkey had head coaching stints in Buffalo and Jacksonville.
Underwood said in a press conference that they had already began the search for a new general manager and head coach, and expected to conduct interviews this week.
"Currently, we have 14 finalists for the GM position. We will continue to narrow and refine that list," said Underwood.
Loyal Titans fans were skeptical though that promises of change will turn the franchise around.
"The last few years they’ve been terrible. For two years in a row you know you’ve been the worst team in the NFL that’s not good. It's not something to be proud of," said Andrew Murphy who has been a fan since the team moved from Texas.
After losing to the Colts on Sunday, the Titans secured the 1st pick in this year's NFL Draft.
