Titans Set to Hire Dennard Wilson as Defensive Coordinator
In an exciting move for the Tennessee Titans, new head coach Brian Callahan has filled another key position on his coaching staff. Dennard Wilson, the former Baltimore Ravens secondary coach, will be joining the Titans as their new defensive coordinator, according to league sources. This announcement comes after the recent hiring of Mike Macdonald, the former Ravens defensive coordinator, as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks.
Wilson brings a wealth of experience to the Titans, having played in the league with the Washington Football Team in 2004 before transitioning into a coaching role. Since 2012, he has worked with four different teams, starting as a defensive quality control coach with the St. Louis Rams. As the team moved to Los Angeles, Wilson was promoted to defensive backs coach. He then moved on to the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles, where he served as passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach for both franchises. Finally, in 2023, he joined the Baltimore Ravens.
During his time with the Ravens, Wilson had a significant impact on their defensive backs unit. The team recorded an impressive 18 interceptions and only allowed 18 passing touchdowns throughout the season. Additionally, they gave up just 3,263 passing yards. This outstanding performance helped the Baltimore defense become the first unit in NFL history to lead the league in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways all in the same season.
This hiring decision by Callahan marks a positive start to his tenure as head coach of the Titans. It also means that Shane Bowen, the Titans’ previous defensive coordinator under Mike Vrabel, will not be returning to the team. With Wilson’s appointment, Callahan’s coaching staff is shaping up to be a young and dynamic group. This is consistent with his approach of considering up-and-coming coaches for other key positions, such as offensive coordinator.
This move also highlights the absence of experienced veterans like Wade Phillips or Dean Pees, who previously joined the Rams and Titans, respectively. However, there is still a possibility that Bill Callahan, currently with the Cleveland Browns, could bring a veteran presence to the coaching staff if the Browns are willing to let him go.
In Baltimore, Wilson’s impact on the Ravens secondary was undeniable. He was instrumental in the development of second-year safety Kyle Hamilton, who emerged as an All-Pro player under Wilson’s guidance. Additionally, veteran safety Geno Stone, who had previously been non-tendered by the Ravens, led the AFC in interceptions. Another success story was Brandon Stephens, a former college running back who transitioned to playing mostly safety with the Ravens. Under Wilson’s coaching, Stephens proved himself as a legitimate starting cornerback.
Not only did Wilson have a positive influence on the younger players, but he also helped veterans like Ronald Darby and Arthur Maulet reach new heights in their careers. Despite Marlon Humphrey, a perennial Pro Bowl cornerback, missing a significant portion of the season due to injuries, the Ravens secondary played solid football throughout the year and limited big plays. This achievement is a testament to Wilson’s coaching expertise.
As the Titans gear up for the upcoming season, Dennard Wilson’s appointment as defensive coordinator brings a fresh perspective to the team. With his proven track record and ability to develop players, he will be a valuable asset in shaping an impressive defense for the Titans. Fans eagerly anticipate the impact he will have on the team’s performance in the coming years.
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