NASHVILLE – What a week.
It's been a busy week in free agency, and then Thursday night's uniform/logo reveal took things to another level.
I know Titans fans are fired up right now – well, at least most of them seem to be – and we'll keep the conversation going in this weekend's edition of the Titans mailbag.
Let's go…
Here's the link to submit questions: CLICK HERE.
Jordan Dobbins from Denver, Colorado
Question: Hey Jim. I keep track of your reports through social media, but not much through the mailbag, so I'm sorry if my question or tone isn't in the proper format for the "Ask Jim" column. Regardless I'll give it a shot.
One of the promotional ads the Titans released to unveil the new uniforms showed a new father from 1999 raising his infant son to be a Titans fan through to the current day where that father still enjoys the Titans football with his son but also his granddaughter. This hit close to home as someone born in Nashville in 1998, grew up in the city for 20 years, regularly attended home games with my family who have had season tickets since 2001, and recently had a daughter to carry on the love of Titans football with.
That being said, and as beautiful as the commercial was, the entire rebrand itself has left me feeling hollow. I understand and respect the history of the organization from the time in Houston and the initial years in Tennessee before becoming the Titans. That time should be honored and I think wearing the Oiler throwbacks was great to reinforce that idea as well as inform people who weren't around for that era or didn't know.
While again that's great for someone in Houston's nostalgia, it doesn't resonate with me. Like I said previously, I grew up with the Titans being something distinctly different. The name was an homage to being the Athens of the South. The flame logo felt like a subtle nod to Bud Adams defying the league and Houston to move his team where he wanted in the same way the Titan Prometheus defied the Greek gods and stole Fire to give to man. Nissan Stadium was the Colosseum and where the Gladiators of the Gridiron played, which admittedly is Roman but still fit well. Then there was the sight of seeing a TWO-tone blue uniform that felt unique, unlike other organizations that did navy jerseys as just a trend.
I know things change and evolve. I'm also aware that sometimes the Greek theme felt cringy. Even so, it was definitive in being Nashville, Tennessee's football team. I can watch games from the early 2000s, that I don't remember, and still feel a fan attachment that brings me joy and excitement. As great as the Houston Oilers were with all of their HoF's, I don't feel anything rewatching those games or seeing that brand because it doesn't feel like "my" team. I understand the push to reclaim the Oiler identity and also the need for a uniform refresh to start this new era of football, but it seems to be at the cost of the Titan identity.
The logo, in regards to color scheme and style, doesn't remind me of the of the navy in state flag or the sword-style T to reference the team name. The style looks like it could just as easily represent Texas. The uniforms themselves just seem like EXACT replicas of the Oiler throwbacks except with some small additional stripes to represent guitar strings. The new poster font, while a representation of Nashville, feels basic and generic. I know most people are loving this, and if this was an alternate or city-inspired uniform and general concept, I think I would love it. As the primary identity now though, it feels like an attempt to wash away the previous 25+ years, almost as if it was a mistake, and say it's time to be the Oilers again.
I don't want to ruin on everyone else's parade, because a lot went into it and it's clearly bringing a lot of people joy. I also won't stop supporting the team. I'll still support the same way I have for as long as I can remember through both good and bad seasons. At the same time I feel lost and somewhat abandoned as a fan. I know we're just talking about a football team here and a random fan's hurt emotions attached to the image of said team, but as someone who has covered this organization for many years, do you have any advice for other fans that might feel like me (or maybe just me on the island of one) to help us still feel engaged and what to look forward to or excited with this change? I know I'm asking for a lot and also nothing at all outside of "get on board" or "just wear your old stuff", but if you've got some additional wisdom, I'd enjoy it. If nothing else at least Houston can't try and claim the Oiler name, image, or likeness anymore.
Jim: Hey Jordan. I appreciate you taking the time. And, your tone is perfect. It's genuine, and honest. I feel it. I want folks to share their thoughts in here, whether they approve, or disapprove, of things the team, and organization, is doing. You've earned the right to have a strong feeling, based on your history and loyalty as a fan. I can't tell anyone how they should feel. But I'll share my story, and some of my thoughts on this. I watched that video myself, and it definitely stirs up a lot of emotions. My kids grew up at Nissan Stadium cheering on the Titans, going to games with my wife and sitting on the opposite side of the press box from me. They used to bring their Playmobil toys to the game to keep them entertained. Now they're in their mid/late 20s, one is married, the other is set to get married in June. From the press box, I've always found them during games with my binoculars. My parents had season tickets in Section 133 from the time the stadium first opened. I waved at them every game when Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison Blues came on the video board – that was our signal. They went to every game until my mom couldn't go any more. My dad eventually moved to the handicap section until he physically couldn't go any more himself. They've both since passed away, most recently my dad in August of last year. The video you're referring to speaks to your life, my life, and the lives of a lot of long-time Titans fans. It speaks to changing times, life changes, loyalty, and for fans, their love of the team. My parents loved the Titans, same with my wife and kids. None of them care/cared anything about the Houston Oilers. My dad rooted for the Buffalo Bills (because of me) when I was growing up. Yes, I loved the Bills, starting as a six-year-old because of O.J., through the Jim Kelly era (I admit I was wildly cheering for the Bills in The Comeback win over the Oilers in 1993) and all the way up until the time I started covering the Titans for The Tennessean in 1999, when I had to ditch my fandom. I'll never forget the conversation with my dad after the Music City Miracle. Moving forward, I know the Titans won't look the same any more with the new uniforms, and new players, just like the faces in the crowd have changed. A year from now, Adelphia Coliseum/The Coliseum/LP Field/Nissan Stadium will be a thing of the past as the team turns its sights to new Nissan Stadium. It's almost hard to believe how fast time has gone by, and how much has changed over the years. I just think you have to look at it like this is still "your" team, the Titans, and forget about the Houston past that I know a lot of Titans fans don't really care about. Your fondest memories are from the Titans days, and that will never change.
I included the video you're referring to below for those who haven't seen it. It's worth watching:
Jesse Cooper from Shelbyville, Tennessee
Question: Jim, love the new uniforms. Nothing over the top, they're clean, throwback to the Oilers (which I'm too young to remember) but also giving our own twist on it. I've already got $500 of new appeal in my shopping cart! As far as free agency, seems like Salah is picking his defense and loading up on depth. My idea for the number 4 pick is get the top edge available or Love. Thank you Jim for the great work you're doing!
Jim: Appreciate it, Jesse. And we agree 100 percent on the draft options.
Kenneth Krahl from Arlington, Tennessee
Question: Overall Jim, people are calling the rebrand a huge success and I agree. The only things I would have changed were a red facemask instead of white and to stream the event live so out of state and country Titan fans could enjoy it. I've learned not to judge off-season player and coaching moves until seeing it play out on the field. Otherwise, it's just losing in nicer uniforms. Best of luck covering the draft and the season.
Jim: I hear ya, Kenneth. I've seen some fans suggest the team should've gone red with the red facemask, too. I've thought about that myself, but I actually think the white is much cleaner.
Steve Anaker from El Sobrante, California
Question: Hi, Jim. Love your work and your incredible patience. I know with your current job, criticizing the front office is a no-no, but it does seem that Saleh and Daboll (and even Borg) were far too reliant on players they had worked with in the past this FA period. I get that having a few who can speed up the team's adoption of their schemes, but it's hard to believe that all the best choices just happened to have played with them in the past. What are your thoughts?
Jim: Hey Steve. I've seen some folks question this, and you're right – there have been a lot of signings with guys who've been with them at previous stops. But I don't think this is a bad thing. Mike Borgonzi and Robert Saleh are trying to build a culture, and they know what they are getting in these guys as players, and locker room guys. Of course these players are going to have to prove them right, because any failures would be easy to second-guess.
Cosme Belmonte from Mexico City, Mexico
Question: Stop everything! I couldn't be happier! The new uniforms are extraordinary, they're gorgeous! I have to admit they're not the Oilers' uniforms, but they're truly perfect. I'm so excited, and now all that's left is to reopen the House of Pain! It's going to be an excellent year! Titan up!
Jim: Muchas gracias, Cosme.
James Dugger from Bedford, Texas
Question: Hey Jim! I think the titans made the best choice possible in merging the history of the entire organization into their uniforms. They are not representing the history of the team from 1960-now.
My one question, do you think the Titans will unveil an alternate uniform set for next season before the big move into the stadium?
Jim: Hey James. Don't forget the Rivalry uniforms for this season. They'll be revealed at some point, but not sure when.
Mitch Jordan from Orlando, Florida
Queston: Jim, I have had a restless night and feel compelled to take a moment and share some thoughts following Thursday night's unveiling of the team's new branding. I do so as someone who has been a proud Tennessee Titans fan since 1998, when the franchise first arrived in Nashville. Like so many others at that time, I strongly remember the excitement felt throughout the region that we were getting an NFL team of our own. I also distinctly remember how disappointed many of us were with the original team name and logo as it felt like it was still Houston's team. When the organization responded by rebranding as the Tennessee Titans, creating an entirely new identity including the fireball logo and the iconic two-tone blue I was hooked. At the time, the organization spoke about the 'Strength of a Titan.' Now for almost thirty years the Titan's fans have embraced that strength as our own identity and legacy.
Through the highs and lows, I have loved this team and have been proud to be a season ticket holder. That is why Thursday night's rebrand was difficult for me. While I understand the desire to honor the full history of the franchise, the new look felt less like a blend of eras and more like a return to the Houston Oilers identity. The Titans branding, the colors, the fireball, and the distinct identity that we the Tennessee Titans have embraced for nearly three decades essentially seemed to be tossed aside. It truly felt as though we were welcoming back the another cities team and in the process losing our own. Nashville and Titans fans have invested deeply in this team for almost 30 years, and we are continuing that commitment with a new stadium and decades more of football in Tennessee. This is our team now. The Tennessee Titans identity deserves to be celebrated just as much as the franchise's earlier history.
I truly believe there is an opportunity to bring balance to this new era. A few thoughtful adjustments could go a long way toward honoring both chapters of the franchise's story. For example, restoring the classic Titans two-tone blue more prominently in the color scheme would immediately reconnect the brand with the identity fans have embraced for decades. The new primary logo itself has potential, but incorporating Titans Navy would help it feel unmistakably tied to Tennessee Titans and not just the Houston Oilers. Additionally, I know we are getting an alternate jersey later this year and possibly that could provide the opportunity to deliver Titans Era Inspired design.
I share these thoughts out of deep respect and love for this team. This franchise has been an important part of my life for nearly three decades, and I know many others who feel the same way. Your video of the father growing up watching the iconic moments of the past years of the team in Nashville home, as I am now sharing my fandom with my own sons. It struck me the deep connection they shared all focusing on our logo (the Fireball) and then to seeing the primary character remove his hat at the end felt jarring.
My hope is simply that the identity Nashville built with this team continues to be honored and represented moving forward.
Thank you for always taking the time to listen to the voices of the fans. Titan Up, Mitch Jordan.
Jim: Thanks for taking the time, Mitch.
Tobe Harris from Johnson City, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim. It's been a minute since I wrote in last. I have a new name since I got married (used to be Tobe Wolfe). I LOVE the new uniforms! Clean design with lots of meaning. I guess I need to order a new 98. I think I'll go Titans Blue for this one. Keep up the great work!
Jim: Thanks Tobe, and congrats!
Evan Rogers from Chelsea, Massachusetts
Question: Hey Jim. I know I'm in the minority here, but I do not like the new jerseys and color scheme. I know it's the heritage and the history of this team, but we may as well be the Oilers again. My question is besides it saying Titans on the home jersey, how are we in anyway the Titans anymore? Any imagery and aesthetic this franchise had since it became the Titans is gone. We used a sword for pregame with the 12th titans, what are we going to do now, break a guitar?
Jim: I've been around for three jersey changes now. I understand it's going to take a while for some to get used to. The team needs to start winning games again, and if that happens, I think more fans will embrace it. Thanks for chiming in, Evan.
Peyton Bushart from Dyersburg, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim. Could we possibly see a blue jerseys with blue britches this upcoming year?
Jim: Hi Peyton. I know the plan is for light blue over white to be the primary home uniform, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the white jerseys for an early season home game. A return of the Smurf look? Not sure about that, but never say never I guess…
Chris Ventura from Mt. Juliet, Tennessee
Question: Love the new jerseys and rebrand. But how will Titans honor the original Titans logo? I'm just afraid it'll be forgotten along with the players who donned that logo especially the original Titans who helped build this franchise in TN.
Jim: Hey Chris. I hear ya. A lot of memories in that fireball logo. It's in the new uniform, at least parts of it. But it's now a great retro look.
Lucas Phillips from Johnson City, Tennessee
Question: Not a question, just wanted to say you did a great job on the rebrand Jim!
Jim: Wish I could take credit, Lucas. It was just fun to be there Thursday night, and be a part of it. Know a lot of folks worked a really long time on this for a long time. The decision to make the jersey switch and rebrand for 2026 was made back in the summer of 2024, so it's been a few years in the making.
Beau Blaker from Houston, Texas
Question: Hey Jim, first I want to say I love the uniforms one of the best in the league right away. The talk down here in Houston already is as expected "Titans want to be Houston" but those are the people who don't understand the Oilers and Titans are one and the same. The Rams moved back to LA stayed the Rams no one mentions them wanting to be St. Louis. The Colts moved from Baltimore to Indy no one says they want to be Baltimore. Absolute beauties can't wait to see them on the field and what the new practice jerseys will look like.
As for free agency I'm curious your thoughts as we have really attacked defense. From DL, secondary. And a couple rotational edges. Borgonzi mentioned wanting an experienced center to help Cam. Do we think Schlottmann who came over from NY is all they will sign at that spot? Appreciate all the time and effort you do covering the team over the years!
Jim: Hey Beau. Yeah, that's a tired line from Texans fans, who seem to always be complaining about something. At least they have Pappadauxs and Pappasitos, Ninfas, and John McClain. The Titans fans in Houston have a lot more going for them, especially the TTFIH. I think the uniforms look great myself.
I like the additions on defense, eight total. As for center, I think Schlottmann has a great chance to win the job. But he's going to have to earn it. This roster is under construction, and this team is getting a makeover that includes more than the uniforms and logo.
Robert Keith from San Diego, California
Question: Will Daniel Bellinger get significant playing time? Seems he was underutilized with the Giants.
Jim: Hey Robert. Time will tell, but he was brought here for a reason. He's regarded as a really good blocker, and he's caught his fair share of footballs as well. I see you're from San Diego - I suspect you know this from watching him with the Aztecs? Right now I expect Daniel and Gunnar Helm will be the top two tight ends. Daniel knows Brian Daboll's system, which will surely help him get comfortable in a hurry.
Chuy Cano from Corpus Christi, Texas
Question: Chuy down here n South Texas Mr. Jim. Soooooooo I saw the new uniform reveal.....so we basically put a T on Captain America's shield 🤔🤔.... I really liked the flame on helmet ....really dnt know why the uniforms changed....do u know the reason? I guess we'll look great losing.....lost the game guys...but dang we good doing it out there!
Jim: Good to hear from you, Chuy. Glad you like it.
Brad Smith from Kent Island, Maryland
Question: Jim. No question, but a few brief comments. First off I don't agree with a few of our players we parted with, especially Sweat & Okonkwo. I felt both were showing great growth and potential. I do always try to trust our management, so we will wait and see on the players we acquired, although no big splash was made thus far. My ultimate concern is the new logo that just came out. I do go back with the Oilers as early as 1978 and have rather appreciated them incorporating their old uniforms more as of late, yet I did find the navy blue as a major distinction between the 2 and thought it fit well. The columbia blue has always been our origin and I can live with bringing it back permanently now,.but for the life of me,.I can NOT STAND for the new "T" logo without the flames!!. I know that sounds rather miniscule,.but to me I felt we had one of the very best logos in the NFL with the flames coming off the circled T logo. Now we have gone to almost the blandest and rather ordinary logos EVER!,.I do NOT think that was a great move at all and it takes away from the fire this team represented. If they couldn't keep the navy blue, they should had at least kept in the fiery logo which is on all our merch for the last 26 years!,.Very disappointed in that decision,..I honestly think you should take a poll to the fans on this logo change? I am sure more than 80% will disagree with it. Then have the results of the poll shown to management and maybe it can be changed back for next year and we can just simply look back on this as the one year in which they had this God awful logo for collectors purposes,.like when they had the Oiler logo with 3 star flag back in 1998. It is a HUGE mistake,.not just a personal preference.
Jim: I hear ya, Brad. I've seen a lot of positive comments about the rebrand, and some who don't love it. I appreciate all opinions. My take: If the Titans win in these uniforms, some on the fence will get on board. I'm a lifelong Vandy fan. Vandy changed its logo a few years back. At first, I didn't like it, because I'm a star V guy (old logo). I'll always be a star V guy, if I'm being honest. But the new Vandy logo has looked better to me of late, because the sports programs have been winning more consistently wearing it. I know a ton of fans who love the new Titans uniforms, and logos. I've heard from some who don't like it. I suspect some who are on the fence might get on board if the team can start winning more than three games a year and turn into a contender again.
Sergio Escobar from El Paso, Texas
Question: Hello Jim, hope all is well. Thanks again for all you do for us fans. Glad to see all the quality signings so far in free agency. Excited (about) the new uniforms. I know we got a lot of coach Saleh and daboll's former guys. We have had signings in the past that seemed like great fits only to be disappointed in the end but that's just the way it goes. Only time will tell but I am excited about the prospect of finally getting to a .500 record. Only wish we would have gotten a quality veteran center to help out Cam. I liked Levin and was hoping to resign him after cutting cush but he signed elsewhere. Are we looking at that position in the draft? Was also hoping Byard would return as I think he would have been great again with this new regime before he signed with the pats. One last thing that I know you get a lot of questions on but even though we have trubisky now as back up and so Levis will most likely get traded, I wonder how good Levis would have faired in Daboll's offense. Let's face it he as well as with Cam last year we're done no favors with the coaching staff they had. Very optimistic for this year as I have been the last 50 and hoping we repeat the success we had the last time we got into a new stadium by going to the super bowl. Take care sir and again thank you. Titan up.
Jim: Hey Sergio. I think the familiarity with some of these signings will end of up being a plus. I expect the team to add more competition at center, but Schlottman is going to have a chance to win the job. I agree Levis was dealt a tough hand here, but he has to take at least some accountability himself. I wish him well no matter what happens from here because he's a good guy.
Joshua Pollard from Pocatello, Idaho
Question: I know the Oilers colors have history, but as a lifelong Titans fan it just doesn't feel like us. I grew up rooting for the Titans, not the Oilers. When I see those uniforms, it feels like the team is borrowing an identity instead of representing the one we've had in Tennessee for the last 25 years. More navy blue should have been used in the design and the new logo is just so bland and underwhelming. I don't understand all the love for these uniforms. The best part to come out of this is the new "Titans" cursive wordmark. Disappointed
Jim: Thanks for taking the time, Joshua.
David Rawls from League City, Texas
Question: Hi Jim. I just love this branding and uniforms so much! I really appreciate how much love the team has for its legacy in Houston and the move to Tennessee and future legacy to come! Having grown up in Houston and seeing how they kicked the Oilers to the curb everyone here seems to have amnesia, but Nashville and Tennessee love and I mean love the Titans and so do I! TitanUp!!
Jim: Appreciate it, David.
Have a great weekend everyone!
