Titans Ranked Near Bottom in 2026 NFL Power Rankings

National media outlets predict Tennessee will struggle again next season, but are they missing key factors?

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Several national media outlets have released their 'way-too-early' 2026 NFL power rankings, and the Tennessee Titans are consistently ranked near the bottom of the league. While the Titans are coming off back-to-back 3-14 seasons, the author argues that the national media may be overlooking some important factors that could lead to an improved performance next year.

Why it matters

The Titans' low rankings in the early 2026 power rankings could impact public perception of the team and fan expectations heading into the new season. However, the author believes the national media is failing to fully account for the Titans' offseason changes, including the hiring of new head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, as well as the potential development of quarterback Cam Ward.

The details

The Titans are ranked 27th or 28th by five major national outlets, including ESPN, FOX Sports, Sporting News, Pro Football Network, and USA TODAY Sports. The rankings cite the Titans' need to improve their receiving corps and provide more support for quarterback Cam Ward. However, the author argues that the national media is being too quick to write off Saleh and Daboll based on their previous head coaching failures with the Jets and Giants, rather than looking at their full bodies of work.

  • The 2026 NFL power rankings were released in the hours after Super Bowl 60.

The players

Cam Ward

The Titans' starting quarterback, who needs more help from his receiving corps after a disappointing 2025 season.

Robert Saleh

The Titans' new head coach, who previously served as the head coach of the New York Jets.

Brian Daboll

The Titans' new offensive coordinator, who previously served as the head coach of the New York Giants.

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What they’re saying

“QB Cam Ward needs help. It's the prevailing trend in just about every discussion of the Titans. And it's indisputable.”

— Nick Suss, Titans beat writer (The Tennessean)

“To start in the more obvious place: Daboll's not a head coach this time. He's an offensive coordinator, a role he thrived in while with Buffalo from 2018-21.”

— Nick Suss, Titans beat writer (The Tennessean)

What’s next

The Titans will have to make a decision on the future of wide receiver Calvin Ridley, and will likely look to address their receiving corps with the 4th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

While the national media may be quick to dismiss the Titans based on their recent struggles, the hiring of Saleh and Daboll could provide a much-needed boost for the team. If Ward can develop and the Titans can add some playmakers on offense, they may be able to exceed the low expectations set by the early 2026 power rankings.