Like many around the Tennessee Titans organization, team great Derrick Henry was absolutely stunned by their decision to cut ties with head coach Mike Vrabel after six mostly productive years leading the team.
On Tuesday afternoon, after weeks of speculation of a divide between him and the franchise’s front office, the Titans took the bold step of firing head coach Mike Vrabel. While the move was rumored it is still a bit surprising since Vrabel took the franchise to the playoffs three times and earned Coach of the Year honors in 2021.
Related: Identifying top Tennessee Titans coaching candidates to replace Mike Vrabel, including Bobby Slowik
However, all indications are that a growing disconnect between the former New England Patriots star and new general manager Ran Carthon led to his downfall and ouster today. It will be interesting to see how the organization proceeds with a team that probably could have been worse than the 6-11 squad that they were in 2023. Especially with some notable players from Vrabel’s best rosters likely leaving the franchise in the offseason.
Derrick Henry stunned by Tennessee Titans decision to fire Mike Vrabel: ‘Wow’
The biggest name that could be playing elsewhere in 2024 is running back Derrick Henry. He had some of his best seasons in the league under Vrabel’s watch, and it should come as no surprise that the team great was stunned by the organization’s decision on Tuesday.
Related: Derrick Henry hilariously thanks cafeteria worker after what might be his last Tennessee Titans game
“Wow. Wow. I’m shocked. Coach Vrabel is a leader of men. He is a great coach and teacher. I know he will get another opportunity right away. I look forward to it,” Henry told The Athletic after the news broke.
Both Henry and Vrabel are likely to receive a lot of interest in the player and head coach market in the months ahead. It would not be shocking if the four-time Pro Bowler joined his coach at his next stop.