Nashville SC Extend Head Coach BJ Callaghan's Contract

Callaghan led Nashville to their first-ever title in 2025 and set several club records.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Nashville SC have signed head coach B.J. Callaghan to a contract extension through the 2028-29 MLS season. Callaghan, who was named Nashville's second manager in July 2024, is coming off a historic first full season in charge of the Coyotes, leading the team to their first-ever title - the 2025 US Open Cup - and breaking several club records.

Why it matters

Callaghan's extension signals Nashville SC's commitment to maintaining stability and continuity in their coaching staff as they look to build on their recent success. The Coyotes are poised for another strong season in 2026 with the addition of star midfielder Cristian Espinoza.

The details

In addition to the 2025 US Open Cup title, Callaghan broke several Nashville SC records in 2025, including most single-season MLS wins (17), longest unbeaten streaks (15 all competitions, 12 MLS), most single-season home wins (15), and most single-season goals (75).

  • Callaghan was named Nashville's second manager in July 2024.
  • Nashville SC won the 2025 US Open Cup under Callaghan's leadership.

The players

BJ Callaghan

The head coach of Nashville SC, who has led the team to historic success since taking over in 2024.

Cristian Espinoza

A two-time MLS All-Star who recently joined Nashville SC as a Designated Player after leaving the San Jose Earthquakes.

Hany Mukhtar

One of Nashville SC's Designated Players and a key part of the team's attack.

Sam Surridge

Another of Nashville SC's Designated Players, providing additional firepower to the team's offense.

Mike Jacobs

The president of soccer operations and general manager for Nashville SC.

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What they’re saying

“B.J. has had a tremendous impact on our group's success, and his extension is well-deserved.”

— Mike Jacobs, President of soccer operations and general manager, Nashville SC (mlssoccer.com)

“I am grateful for the trust that John Ingram, Ian Ayre and Mike Jacobs, the players and the staff have shown in me. What matters most is the work we're doing every day — building a strong culture, developing players and creating a team that our supporters, the city of Nashville and the state of Tennessee can identify with and believe in, and I'm excited to keep pushing this project forward together.”

— BJ Callaghan, Head coach, Nashville SC (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

Nashville SC will begin their 2026 MLS season on February 21 at home against the New England Revolution. They will also compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

The takeaway

Nashville SC's extension of head coach BJ Callaghan's contract demonstrates the club's commitment to maintaining stability and continuity as they look to build on their recent success, which includes winning the 2025 US Open Cup and setting several club records. With the addition of star midfielder Cristian Espinoza, Nashville is poised for another strong season in 2026.