NASHVILLE – And we're on to Cincinnati.

OK, wait, where have I heard that before?

This time it's the Titans, who face the Bengals on Sunday.

The Titans will make the trip, of course, without defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, who was traded to the Chicago Bears on Thursday.

That move generated a whole lot of feedback in here.

Let's dive into another Titans mailbag and check the vibes.

I appreciate everyone who took the time during a tough week.

Here's the link to submit questions: CLICK HERE.

Christopher Hannah from Portugal
Question: Hi Jim. First time writing in, but I've been a Titans fan since 2014.
It's sad to hear that Jeffery Simmons is moving on. He's an outstanding athlete and, by all accounts, an equally outstanding human being. He'll be a tremendous asset to his new team, and his departure leaves a massive hole in the Titans' roster.
It's hard not to see this as waving the white flag on the 2026 season and another sign that 2027 will be the start of a new chapter for the franchise. Here's hoping the rebuild finally pays off, the pieces fall into place, and we see the Titans playing meaningful football in January again.
I hope we get it right this time. I miss the days of Marcus Mariota, A.J. Brown, Derrick Henry, and Coach Vrabel. Those were some exciting times, and I'd love to see that kind of hope and excitement return to Nashville. I'll be content if we can get two more wins this year and finally get the rebuild we need.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, Jim. Titan Up!

Jim: Thanks for writing in, Christopher.
I know the moves – and results – of the last several years have really tested the patience of Titans fans. Believe me, I completely understand why fans are frustrated, and upset. This stretch of losing football has gone on longer than anyone wants. I hate to think we're still mired in a rebuild after the results of the last few years, but I think we have to admit, that's still where things stand right now at 1-6, and the best player shipped off for draft picks for the future. I do think the team is getting better, but it's clearly not there yet. And it's now a new day, minus Jeffery Simmons.

Sue Perry from Centerville, Tennessee
Question: Jim. What in the world could have possessed Amy to trade our Face of the Titan's Jeff Simmons??? This team is on for Disaster and fans will stop supporting due to the decisions made today. I've been a Die Hard fan since 1999 and am done spending money for merchandise or going to anymore games. This is an Absolute Death losing Jeff. He truly was the only reason we all keep believing and supporting. The Worst Decision was made (with Jeff). Good luck with filling any seats especially in the new expensive stadium. They never considered or discussed anything with Jeff. Made a choice to save money and get drafts. Awful choices will haunt them for what has been done.

Jim: Hi Sue. Well, it was Mike Borgonzi's call. As the owner of the team, Amy signed off on it, of course. But she lets her football folks make the football decisions, and this started with Borgonzi, included Robert Saleh, and was ultimately signed off on by Amy. I hated hearing the news myself, I admit it. I really like Jeff. The two first-round picks are very valuable, only if you pick the right players. We'll have to wait and see how it goes. I will say I have faith in Mike; he's smart, and he's a relentless worker. He took over a roster that was a mess, and he hasn't had enough time to improve it as much as it needs to be improved. If you're a Titans fan, you just have to hope he makes these picks really count.

Carlos Perez from Columbus, Indiana
Question: Hi Jim, hope all is well, I bet your email is flooded… thanks again for being our therapist and helping us vent the frustrations. I wish nothing but the best to Big Jeff, he is the best interior linemen in Titans history. I'm not confident two 1st round picks can give us the same he brings every day to this team. Borgonzi will need to ace the picks with two impressively good selections. Time will tell, but I'm not optimistic right now. I know this comment is over many GM's, but how the Titans will be ending these painful years by trading or letting go our best players/leaders? Any hope of watching another win this season is gone, ouch! Anyway, no matter if we are in bad or worse times, TITAN UP!

Jim: It didn't take long for the inbox to start filling up, Carlos, I'll say that. Keep reading, the feedback came from all over the world.

Bill Holmes from Fairport, New York
Question: Well, Jim, we just traded the face of the franchise and the best leader in the locker room. Having two first round picks each of the next two years could be a blessing, though - at least this wasn't a horrible return like we got for The King and AJ Brown. And we did give Big Jeff a major contract extension, so he's set financially through 2030.
I can only imagine we are listening hard to offers for Pollard and Ridley. Is there ANY player you think is off limits? And do you think we will continue to target draft picks for our return, or will we focus upon landing a young but solid OL?

Jim: Well, Borgonzi said himself he's not actively shopping players. I'd have to think other teams start to inquire about some of the Titans players, though. With the Jeff trade, I think we've seen no one is off limits.

Ben Hastings from Holly Springs, North Carolina
Question: Just one. How did the Jeffrey Simmons trade help us this season? We got some picks for him, but unless management figures out a way to determine draft picks better than they have in the past, I feel as though we are still in trouble. I wish Jeffrey the best, he will be missed. Maybe now he will get his chance at a Super Bowl. I hope so he deserves it.

Jim: Hey Ben. The Jeffery Simmons trade did not help the Titans this season. And, it remains to be seen if it helps the franchise down the road. But that's what Borgonzi is banking on with the trade, for extra first-round picks in the 2027 and 2028 NFL Drafts.

McKeeg Russell from Elkhart, Texas
Question: For the first time in my life, I can honestly say there is almost nothing recognizable about this franchise.
I've been here since Earl Campbell. I've been loyal through the good years, the bad years (and Lord knows there have been plenty), the move from Houston, the name change, and every rebuilding effort along the way.
But through all of it, there has always been one common thread: the Oilers/Titans had an identity.
We were underdogs. We were gritty. We valued loyalty, integrity, and team-first football. We weren't known as a franchise built around divas, constant drama, or individual egos. We were known for guys who showed up, worked hard, fought for every yard, and played for each other.
Even when Derrick Henry was wrecking the league and breaking records, it was never just about our superstar. It was about the Titans. Henry was the embodiment of what Oilers/Titans football meant.
But so was NWI...And so was Big Jeff...
That's the point. It was never about being a superstar. It was about being a Titan.
These last three years have been the hardest of my nearly five decades as a fan. Not because of the losing. I've endured plenty of that. It's because our identity has become murky at best.
Firing Mike Vrabel was stupid. Hiring Brian Callahan was stupid. Letting Derrick Henry walk was stupid. And now trading Jeffery Simmons may have been the last straw.
I understand football is a business. I understand salary caps, contracts, draft picks, and the arguments that can be made for the business side of this trade.
But football is also about leadership, culture, and identity. Those things have value that doesn't always show up on a spreadsheet.
Trading Big Jeff, this franchise walked away from what felt like its last remaining anchor to the Oilers/Titans identity. The last established leader on the field who brought us fans into the fight with him every Sunday. The guy we knew would leave everything he had on the field, week after week, for the TEAM.
Under Vrabel, that identity became even stronger. We went from having guys who played hard to having guys who played hard and genuinely believed they could beat anybody.
And you know what?.... We the fans believed it, too.
We could be injured, undermanned, outmatched, or counted out by everyone in the country, but when those guys took the field, we believed we had a chance. More importantly, we knew THEY believed it.
Where is that belief today?
The new leadership, from the front office to Saleh, has yet to show us who they really are or what they stand for. I'm willing to give them an opportunity to establish their identity. But trading away the last remaining player who so clearly represented ours makes me wonder what kind of team they're actually trying to build.
We cycle through players. We bring in underwhelming veterans. We keep talking about building through the draft, but the results have been inconsistent.
There are young players I'm genuinely excited about. Latham, Skoronski, Hill, Tate. There are pieces here worth watching, developing, and believing in.
But we have pieces, and no idea what the puzzle is supposed to look like.
Are we building a picture of the sky? The ocean? Or are we just grabbing every blue puzzle piece we can find and hoping they'll eventually fit together?
That's what this franchise feels like right now.
I'm not asking for a Super Bowl every year. I'm not even asking for a winning record every year. I'm asking for a team whose identity I can recognize. A team whose players believe in each other, whose leadership sets a standard, and whose fans know that every Sunday, win or lose, those guys are going to fight like hell for each other and for the Luv Ya Blue!
I grew up watching the Oilers. I went to training camps, met my heroes, and wore that oil derrick on my own helmet as a little kid playing YMCA football. This franchise has been part of my life for almost five decades. I've never seriously imagined walking away from it.
But today, for the first time, I'm asking myself if this is still my team...
Will this new leadership build something we can be proud of, win or lose? Will they give us an identity worth believing in again?
Because I have never walked away from this team. But right now, it feels like this team is walking away from me.

Jim: Love the passion, McKeeg. Sorry you're feeling this way.

Raymond Leathers from Nashville, Tennessee
Question: Jim. Not a question, but here we go again. Got rid of AJ Brown, Derrick Henry, now Jeff Simmons. I have never written in before. I consider this to be another bonehead move by the Titans. No wonder they are losing fans. A new stadium won't save this time. Ludicrous to pitch this as an "offer you can't refuse".
BTW, I think you do a good job. I always liked Judge Wyatt and I think he was in my Uncle Raymond's courtroom a bunch back in the day. I was named after him, and am a retired attorney. I tried to stay out of Criminal Court most of my practice.

Jim: Thanks for writing in, Raymond. I appreciate the kind words, and for mentioning my late father. My dad loved the Titans – I'm pretty sure he would have given me a lot of grief about this trade if he was still with us. He always used to remind me about what a bad decision it was to not bring Derrick Henry back.

Joshua Keller from Nashville, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim. Long-time reader, first time writer. I'm struggling to even find the right questions to ask anymore. "What now? What's next? Who's next?" all feel like empty questions with irrelevant answers at this point. With the team heading into a brand new stadium next season, we have zero marketable talent (outside of hopefully Carnell Tate), we have absolutely zero hope of making a quick turnaround, and we seem destined to be headed for the 3rd "rebuild" in 5 seasons. The owner hasn't made a public appearance in months, ChatGPT has apologized more to the fans than the organization has, and now you trade away the one true superstar you had left on the roster that wanted to retire a Tennessee Titan. With all of this in mind, I guess the question I have for someone that is on the inside is this: Does anybody within the controlling portion of the ownership group actually care? It seems like the organization is truly the most tone deaf franchise in the league when it comes to giving a damn about the few Titans fans left in the stands on Sundays. The franchise seems hellbent on destroying any goodwill with the fanbase, they've placed significantly more emphasis on the almighty dollar than creating a better home-field environment, and at the end of the day, it seems like there's zero plans to fundamentally improve anything about the gameday atmosphere, from the play on the field to the idiot messing up simple PA calls in the box. I've been a Titans fan since the day I was born, and I've seen every single iteration of this franchise from Adelphia Coliseum to LP Field and now Nissan Stadium. This is the worst I've ever felt about the team, the least amount of hope I've ever had in the franchise to correct things moving forwards, and the closest I've ever been to fully checking out being a fan of this dysfunctional circus that we call a football organization. I'm trying to survive this season and make it to 2027, but there seems to be less and less light at the end of the tunnel with each passing day. Thanks for all you do for us, Jim, and sorry for the rant. When will this finally all end?

Jim: Wish I could tell you an end date, Joshua, and you're right – this misery has gone on for too long for Titans fans. Appreciate you chiming in. Don't be a stranger.

Terrell Taylor II from Milford, Delaware
Question: Hey there Jim, gonna start off by saying I'm a fan dating back to Warren Moon, and Frank Wychek. How does the organization expect to keep a fan base, as loyal as we are, when year after brutal year we're in rebuild mode? Trade the heart of our defense, while we're "rebuilding"? I'm not liking the direction we're going and had to speak up. Thanks for your time Jim.

Jim: Thanks for weighing in, Terrell.

Christian Bauer from Dachau, Germany
Question: Hello Jim. I've been an Oilers/Titans fan since the mid-80s, because a certain Warren Moon made such an impression on me when I watched my first football match on TV. I've stuck by this team ever since – through thick and thin. I've always considered myself a hardcore fan. Thanks to you and your 'Ask Jim' column, I now know how all the other fans – and those who think they are – think and feel. It's fascinating to see how fans from all over the world view things. Thank you for giving us fans this opportunity.
For some time now, I've wanted to write that a rebuild like this takes time – and it also needs the fans support. Together, we'll get back to the top. So stop booing this young team and get behind them! To all the true fans, I'd like to say how much I enjoy seeing you give your all to cheer this team on – whether it's in the heat, the cold or the rain. Thank you for that! I enjoy this on every Gameday on TV. I've only been able to support our team once so far, in London against the Chargers.
But for days now, I've been thinking about the trade involving Big Jeff. I don't understand how anyone could say the offer was too good to refuse. We're getting two late first-round draft lottery picks. Even if we find two top players, it'll be hard for them to have the same impact on the game together as Jeff did on his own. But we certainly won't find anyone who'll now become the heart and soul of this team! Of course, people will say that others now have to step up and learn to lead. I don't think you can learn that quickly, though. The kind of presence Jeff had is something you have to build up over years. So now we're in the midst of a rebuild without a proper leader. In my opinion, this trade was a big step in the wrong direction. I'd never give up my only AAA+ player for two first-round picks. At 29, Jeff still had plenty left in the tank. Congratulations to the Bears. I hope Jeff wins his well-deserved ring there.
With all due respect to Miss Amy, the fact that she's behind this trade really makes me doubt whether we have the right people to steer this franchise in the right direction.
I hope that in a few years' time I'll be able to say I was wrong about my theory. But today I fear this move might have been even more stupid than giving AJ Brown away for nothing.
Please forgive me for my first email being so negative, but I'm still in shock. Tell me something that will make me keep believing in this franchise… I'm in my early 50s and I seriously fear I won't be lucky enough to see a championship win in my lifetime.
Anyway. . . Titans up!!!

Jim: Hey Christian. Thanks for writing in. And, it is amazing to me to be able to see the passion from the fan base, not just in Tennessee, not just in the United States, but all over the world. You have a lot more patience than most. As for the trade, it's been fascinating to see how folks view it. Some hate it, some love the value. I think I'm torn, because I hated to see Jeff go, and I hate the thought of potentially more struggles in the short-term for hope of improvement down the road. Because, as Titans fans know, there has been a lot of misery of late. I agree it's going to be hard to find anyone like Jeff. The GM is really on the spot to turn these into great picks. I know some past first-round picks from previous GMs have caused fans to be skeptical. No one knows for sure how things will play out, but I think everyone would agree with this – winning games is more important than trades. The team needs to get back to winning more games. Maybe these future first-round picks will help? Best to you.

Richard Colestock from St Cloud, Florida 
Question: Hey Jim. Really, REALLY, bad day!!! We've traded Big Jeff to the Bears.
He killed himself for us, but he doesn't deserve to be saddled with the team we had last year and a team who most likely won't improve on last years record this season.
Now, at least he has a CHANCE of making the playoffs and who knows from there.
I have always admired Jeff....he's a man among men and a credit to the NFL....and I wish him well.
So...now what??? Has the rebuild started???
What are YOUR thoughts?

Jim: Heck, Richard, the rebuild started a few years ago.

Trey Youell from Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Question: Good morning Mr Jim I am writing this in school. Why in the world would we trade the best defensive player in the world? I am so frustrated with this trade only getting 2 first rounders for the best defensive linemen in the world is wild to me. I am also frustrated with the fact this team is 1-6. I also think Cam and Dan Moore are the reason this offense cannot get going. Dan Moore is a waste of a contract. Cam has got to be better with his mechanics and be able to throw on time. Tony pollard having a massive game on Sunday helped so much. They also need to get Gunnar Helm the ball way more. Trade Calvin Ridley he's not what his contract is. Do you think the Titans should continue with Cam at quarterback? And in free agency this offseason the Titans need to get a proven quarterback who is a veteran who can teach Cam what to do just like the Raiders are doing with Mendoza. Blessing to you Mr Wyatt.

Jim: You're supposed to be paying attention in class, Trey! Appreciate all the thoughts. A lot of unanswered questions around here for sure. I want Cam t be the guy, but he still has a lot to prove. He needs to keep getting better. Did I hear the school bell ring? Blessings, Trey!

Cosme Belmonte from Mexico City, Mexico
Question: Hey Jim! "I never expected anything from you guys, and yet you still manage to disappoint me."
Simmons traded to the Bears? I saw it—along with the news about Henry, Brown, and so many others. Well, that's it; we aren't going to win anything this season, or the next, or the one after that...
"I never expected anything from you guys, and yet you still manage to disappoint me..."

Jim: Dang Cosme, this one cuts deep.

Joe Giachetti from Sound Beach, NY 
Question: I definitely understand the frustration coming from the fanbase with how things have gone this year, but am I crazy to say that Saleh has not done a bad job as the head coach so far? Yes, there have been a couple of dud performances (Jets, Texans) but the team at least feels like it's being held accountable for how they play. I also can't think of many game situations that Saleh has mishandled yet. He dealt with the Jordan Elliott situation as gracefully as possible. I know that Ward's development and Daboll's playcalling ultimately are his responsibility, but other than the 1-6 record I think he's done an admirable job, no?

Jim: Hey Joe. When you're sitting at 1-6, it's tough to pump up Saleh's job too much. Even Saleh himself has to be disappointed with where the team is right now from a record standpoint. I do think the team has gotten better, but it hasn't been able to win these close games. And after all the losing in the past 3-4 years, folks don't want to hear about close losses. But perhaps here's a sign of improvement: This year's losses have been by 13, 4, 5, 6, 23, and 3, an average of 9.0 per game. The Jets and Texans games were duds. This time last year the team had the same record, but with losses of 8, 14, 21, 26, 10, and 18, an average of 16.2 per game, and five duds by my count. The problem is, the record is 1-6 and everyone wants wins, not close losses. Saleh needs to get the defense playing more consistently, and better, and he's counting on Daboll and Cam and the offense to step it up. He'll be judged for how his first season in Tennessee went after 17 games.

Will Casey from Lebanon, Tennessee
Question: Subject: Frustration with Jeffery Simmons trade and franchise direction
Question for Jim: I am writing to express my absolute frustration and disappointment regarding the recent trade of Jeffery Simmons. Trading away an elite, proven All-Pro leader and the absolute heart and soul of our defense is a devastating blow to the fanbase.
While the return is touted as two first-round draft picks, the franchise's historical track record with high first-round selections leaves us with very little confidence. Over the years, the organization has repeatedly burned premium draft picks on complete duds while simultaneously shipping away or letting go of homegrown superstars like A.J. Brown, Derrick Henry, and now Big Jeff.
Trading away proven, guaranteed cornerstone talent for theoretical lottery tickets while keeping a struggling quarterback on the field makes zero sense to the people who buy the tickets, wear the jerseys, and support this team through every losing season.
Can you please explain to the fanbase how a repeated cycle of gutting our best players and relying on a broken draft history is supposed to lead anywhere other than right back to square one? When is this going to stop? The fans deserve better than this.

Jim: Hey Will. I've said in here before: I can't make any promises. And, trades like this only work if you're drafting the right players in the draft, picking the right players in free agency, and playing better football in Sundays. It's a trifecta the Titans better hit on, or we'll never get out of this rut. I do agree fans deserve better.

Lloyd Frizzell from Houston, Texas
Question: Jim... I know your inbox will be flooded with sadness and/or anger due to the latest news about trading the cornerstone of the franchise, so ill keep my stance on that brief.... I 100% understand that the NFL is a business but I ABSOLUTELY hate the move and you can not convince me it will be beneficial in any way possible.... 
Now onto things that also make me frustrated.... Once again the offense's goal line execution and gameplan was ineffective when we HAD to have it.... Im not sure why Daboll didn't realize this until the 4th quarter on Pollard's TD but we have keep spreading the defense out to run it (aka 11 personnel) ORRR utilize the bootlegs and bring Cam's legs into play (like against PHI).... We Need more creativity down there at the goal line.
I hated to see Pollard's 3 TD game go to waste with a Loss but ill be honest, I had not been that excited in the 1st quarter of a Titans football game since we played the Bears in CHI to open the season a few years ago... We all know how that one ended!!! Thanks Willy Mayo..... HAHA
Talk with ya soon Jim!
Much love from Houston!

Jim: Appreciate it, Lloyd. This trade brought out a lot of sadness, and pent-up frustrations. Stay strong.

Hiroyuki Tagiri from Osaka, Japan
Question: Dear Jim. I'm a Titans fan writing from Japan. I have followed this franchise since its appearance in Super Bowl XXXIV, and I wanted to share some thoughts as a fan who still cares deeply about this team.
First, I understand that trading Jeffrey Simmons was not an easy decision. Receiving two first-round picks is a significant return, and I can understand the football and roster-building logic behind the move. I am not writing simply to criticize the trade itself.
What concerns me more is the message this sends about the direction of the franchise.
This offseason, the Titans made significant additions, giving fans reason to believe the team was ready to turn things around. Now, after a difficult start, one of the team's most important players and leaders has been traded. It naturally raises the question: Are we rebuilding all over again? And if so, how much longer are fans expected to wait?
I worry that repeated changes in direction could turn fans from participants in the team's journey into mere spectators. People may continue to follow the team, but gradually lose the feeling that they are part of something they are building together.
I also feel that the organization needs to do more to communicate with its fans. I know that coaches and executives cannot reveal everything, especially when it comes to football operations. But explaining the team's direction, acknowledging the emotions surrounding a move like this, and showing genuine commitment to the future do not require revealing competitive secrets.
I remember former Titans offensive lineman Taylor Lewan passionately telling fans to come to the stadium and support the team. That message has stayed with me. It was more than a request to buy tickets. It was a reminder that the team and its fans belong together.
I would love to see that kind of passion from the organization again. It does not necessarily have to come from Coach Saleh or GM Mike Borgonzi. Someone within the organization needs to make the effort to reach out to the fans, rather than simply expecting them to understand and wait.
I can accept losing seasons. I can accept difficult decisions. What I find difficult is losing sight of what this team is trying to become, and feeling that the organization is not making enough effort to bring its fans along on that journey.
I still believe in the Titans, and I want to see the next generation of players build something they can be proud of. I hope the organization understands that keeping fans emotionally invested is also an important part of building a successful team.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Titan Up!
A Titans fan from Japan

Jim: Good to hear from you, Hiroyuki, all the way from Japan. And, you raise some valid concerns. I completely understand why fans are losing patience, wondering about the plan. And, seeing so many of the team's most popular players go is a punch in the gut, on top of the losing. I thought Borgonzi and Saleh did their best to help folks understand how the trade went down, whether folks want to hear it or not. Representing the team, I do my best in here to let fans share their feelings, and I try to be as honest as I can. I sometimes fear I am being too honest. But there's no denying the franchise is in a tough spot right now, asking fans again for patience. I'll keep reading and responding the best I can.

Joni Daniels from Antioch, Tennessee
Question: I GIVE UP!!!! Just when I think I have a fairly reasonable idea about what the Titans are attempting to do towards building a viable team, I get the news that Jeffrey Simmons has been traded to Chicago! I know that they got some pretty good 2027 and 2028 draft picks out of this trade but what about the current season?? I love this team and I have been a PSL/Season Ticket holder for many years. I've experienced bad seasons in the past but this is the first time that what the organization is doing feels wrong. I'm fearful that fans will start to lose faith in the voices that make these decisions. I'm fearful that the new stadium might be doomed even before it officially opens!! What in heaven's name can happen next??

Jim: Don't ask that last question, Joni!

Bob Galasso from Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Question: Hi Jim. I cannot believe Jeffrey Simmons has been traded but it was nice to see the Titans get two first round pics, plus a fourth (next) year.
Guess the team is looking ahead to the future but really sad to see him go. Hopefully Big Jeff will get a shot at the Lombardi trophy with the Bears which will be nice to see.
What do you think about this? He was still productive and is among the leaders at his position?
I just hope when it comes time for the 2027 draft they make a wise choice .
Thanks for listening as always and good luck with those fans who write in and aren't happy or supportive.

Jim: Hey Bob. Hated to see Jeff go, to be honest. 
Hope the GM is right on this one.

Mike Temple from Chattanooga, Tennessee
Question: Wow, wow, and wow! King Henry, the Mayor of Murfreesboro, and now Big Jeff! What a loss, not sure who to admire on the Titans anymore, Jim. Football is such a crazy business - e.g., what other business discards its best employees in the hopes of better times in '3 years'? [After the last 4-5 years, I'm honestly starting to wonder if the problem isn't the ownership group & leadership team?] Anyway, now is not the time to point fingers, rather I am writing to thank Mr. Jeffrey Simmons - he was such a class act on the field and in the community! My brother and I were in the masses on Broadway the night he was drafted, we will never forget that historic night. Please let Jeff know he will be missed by these fans, we're sending him our gratitude and best wishes with the Bears! I used to hope we would be good in time for the opening of the new stadium, now I'm just hoping we'll respectable again in time for the Super Bowl being played in Nashville. Titan-up, Mike

Jim: Good to hear from you, Mike.

Dennis Utterback from Louisville Kentucky 
Question: Jim, What in the world is going on with the Tennessee organization. Why is that they trade all their best players AJ Brown, Derrick Henry, Jeffery Simmons and more. Fired Mike Vrabel and he goes to the Super Bowl with the New England Patriots first year. I bought new gear for me and my wife Cam Ward jersey, Jeffery Simmons jersey, 2 shirts, 4 hats and shoes. I was planning on purchasing more gear. I have older such as helmets, jerseys and hats. I'm going to burn all my Tennessee gear. Tennessee has a chance to draft an elite defensive player in the draft they chose to pass on it. What kind of team are they planning on putting in a new stadium. I know a bunch of cheerleaders.Cam Ward showed ask to be traded, because the offensive line aren't blocking for him. I'm still upset with Tennessee when they let Henry go and they get Pollard, Spears and Chestnut all three cannot make one Derrick Henry. I don't want to think of getting rid of A.J. Brown. Amy Adams needs to sell the franchise she doesn't know anything about football.Tennessee has made me sick to my stomach for the last time I have decided to move on. I can't take anymore of their decision making. I'm physically and mentally tired I have had enough!

Jim: I can't even use my Utterly ridiculous line right now, Mr. Utterback. I'm trying to show some compassion. I get why fans are mad.

Chuy Cano from Corpus Christi, Texas
Question: WTH?!............just heard of the J. Simmons trade.....man....think Tanner said it best on the Bad News Bears movie.....just went from bad..to suck...oh and look it there....da bears. What a coincidence. No bad news Bears now...lol. Definitely gonna stack up the losses Mr. Jim!!! But 2 1st rounds picks and more.....Tennessee will still find a way to mess up the draft or give those picks away. Ive always said Tennessee does not do any blockbuster moves....well they did...just not in our favor. Just wow! :-( Titan U..........nevermind

Jim: I knew this one would get you worked up, Chuy.

Howard Turner from Atlanta, Georgia
Question: Jim, our heart and soul is gone. #ThatUppercutHitUsHard #NotBigJeff!
The bite of our defense is now the new monster of the midway. I don't wanna talk about draft picks, Jim. That hasn't worked out for us very much lately. Why does it feel like we're relegated to a feeder team. The guys we draft either don't pan out or they become great and we lose them to contenders as we take our extended stay at the bottom of the league. We keep nothing of quality because we fail at building around them. Jeff was the one last shiny piece we held onto while wallowing in shame. I know this is a move with the future in mind, but I can't help but feel like that tunnel is dark and long after this move. Selling instead of building just made Saleh and Cam's season that much tougher. It's unfortunate because we've been in every game and improving. Jeff was a madman against the Colts and inspired the whole unit propelling us to our first win. Now who brings that for us? I'm hoping this is a call to the locker-room for guys to step up and fill those big shoes. #OneCanHope Looks like we're trying to replicate what the Browns did in trading Garrett, turning it around the next season. It's hard to trust our front office to get this right. #We'veSeenThisMovieBefore
I'm mourning the ineptitude of my beloved hometown franchise.
We appreciate you Big Jeff for all the blood, sweat, and fire you gave this team. I had hoped you'd lead us into the new stadium and be a Titan for good. #YouMadeUsProud #GreatPlayerAndGreaterMan

HugeLossJim

Gutted

Jim: #HanginthereHashtagHoward

Isaiah Stephens from Russell Springs, Kentucky 
Question: Hey Jim! My name is Isaiah. I run a Titans fanpage on Instagram called TheTitansDFA. My question is do you think it's time to think about maybe sitting Cam Ward for a game or two? I'll be the first to say, I believe in him. I think he needs to fix his footwork which is why he's inaccurate at time. He can definitely do it because there's certain plays he does and he makes great throws. I just think we should give him the Bryce Young treatment. I take up for every single Titans player, good or bad performance. But i'm getting exhausted having to take up for him every single week. I'm so tired of losing. I miss the good ole days lol. But anyways thank you for all you do we all appreciate you! All Love Jim!

Jim: Hey Isaiah. I get asked this a lot. What good does it do to sit him for a few games? He needs to play. The Titans need to find out as much as they can about him. The team won't be able to do that with him watching on the sideline.

John Greene from Ashland City, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim , As most Titan Fans this last 5 years has been hard to watch , if a person believed the news we're the worst team ever and have no hope .The media has never been a fair fan of the Titans they betray the teams as hopeless look back at the team since the move we been a good team most of the time 3-5 year down side isn't that and look around the league plenty of teams have done a lot worse Lets take a deep breath Our Titans have been a pretty good team with our share of ups and downs that come with most football teams a few do better over the years . I enjoy football I try to stay level headed ,hard to do after a loss or two for sure . The team is a mess right now . the defense is solid for most of the time , special teams also look okay , Our offense is still playing like they're missing something QB O.C. something isn't working . MS Amy could make better moves when it comes to front office hires fires she does not like being shown up for sure . I think that's good she loves her Dads team . With all that be said were close I'm not expecting a fix this year , Their not fixing the Offense this year I hate it for Cam he seems like a good guy ,he's just not ready to take over this team 1-2 years he should be a good QB should of sat the first couple years like a lot of QB's they get thrown in way to early ! The NFL needs to slow down how they bring up QB's way fast and too much money up front expecting instant return on that money , TITAN UP !!!! 
If the team's leadership can find the right QB to fill in for Cam till he's ready I'm thinking next year we can turn it around . To Cam I'd say eat a slice of humble pie keep working learning you've got what it take just not yet . Were close I can see it I feel it

Jim: Hey John. The media's job is not to be a fan of the team. I covered the for 16 years working at The Tennessean. I was not a "fan" of the team. I work for the team now, so it's different. I appreciate all these other thoughts…

David Dodson from Crossville, Tennessee
Question: Hello Jim. Have been a Titan Fan since they came to Nashville. I believe we have been "rebuilding" since at least 2000. After the Henry and now Simmons trades for supposedly better draft picks in the future, could you tell me if any NFL team has ever traded their fanbase while also building a new stadium? We have had the same number of 1st round picks as most of the rest of the NFL and somehow we have a team that has only won 7 of the last 41 games. I'm surprised that Nissan still allows the Titans to have their name on the stadium. Maybe the new stadium will be called Visitors Stadium?

Jim: Oh man, we've reached the one-liner point of the mailbag.

Kenny Gore from Horse Cave, Kentucky
Question: Hello Jim. It's been a long time since I wrote. I'm SHOCKED Simmons is gone. I thought he was "Untouchable." The truth is; he probably should have been... Altho I will admit; the trade WAS too good to pass up. It's the 1st time in history an NFL DT has been traded for two 1st rd picks; let alone two 1sts PLUS a 4th, which is not insignificant. So as much as I HATE seeing Simmons out of the building; I get it. We FINALLY made the smart business decision; & did not allow emotion/sentiment to overrule, business intelligence. So I am not "Mad." I am upset I won't get to see him dominate for us any longer. However, I am not mad they made the move. Now, where that WILL change; is if this is the only trade we make!! I've heard some report: "The Titans really aren't interested in trading anyone else." IF that is true, I WILL BE PISSED!! We had a chance to reset & did not take it a few years ago. We made some trades the following yr. I just don't want this to be a "one-off." If Jeff isn't off limits; NO ONE should be "off limits." Pollard absolutely SHOULD be on the block & Ridley as well. Now, I know that doesn't mean they can make a trade... It takes two to make a deal. I just don't want to hear that we were uninterested in moving other players. I want to see commitment to selling off players on expiring deals & replace them with young players who will be coming into their "prime" when we are actually capable of competing. Pollard & Ridley are not NEAR those guys & should not be protected. If we get a good offer, it should be taken! GREAT RBs are found late into the draft nearly every yr. 
I just worry this team will do the most Titans thing in the World & fail to take the OBVIOUSLY/Consensus BEST player in this Draft: Jeremiah Smith!! Man, if that happens; fans WILL ROIT! We have NO Stars on this team; we CANNOT afford to pass on a future SUPER STAR in the draft! Jeremiah Smith MUST BE THE PICK IF HE'S ON THE BOARD! NO TRADE, NO other positions, IDC that we took a WR #4 overall... JEREMIAH SMITH!!
Thanks for allowing me to vent Jim... I just have to ask: Will they do it? Will they take Jeremiah Smith?? I worry, because this team just does NOT seem to value Passing... Failing to take Jeremiah Smith should result in termination if it happens... Just clean out the entire building... Besides the Editor of Titan's Online of course!! LOL.

Jim: Good to hear from you, Kenny. It had been a while.

Whitney Wells from Nashville, Tennessee
Question: At what point does the Titans organization recognize that it has a responsibility to Nashville beyond the business of football? Fans are continually asked to invest emotionally, financially, and culturally in this team, yet decisions like trading Jeffery Simmons make it increasingly difficult to feel that the organization values its relationship with this community. I understand football is a business, but shouldn't a franchise also see itself as a civic institution with an obligation to the city that supports it? How does the organization reconcile those responsibilities with decisions that continually erode the community's sense of connection to the team? At what point does the organization stop asking Nashville to be loyal to the Titans and start demonstrating that the Titans are loyal to Nashville?

Jim: This is deep, Whitney. The team will never not need Nashville, I can guarantee you that. I just hope Nashville will continue to support this team because I do realize the patience of the fan base has been tested more than its ever been since the "Titans era" began in 1999.

Katie Fell from Nashville, Tennessee
Question: Hi Jim! I might be too late with my question, but the loss on Sunday seemed more about coaching. Why would a team with a losing record go for it on 4th down? If they had kicked the field goal, they would at least be tied in the end and go to overtime. And isn't the coach in charge of clock management at the end so that the other doesn't have time to come back and score? Would love your thoughts.

Jim: Hi Katie. I'm actually very surprised that I got so many emails on this topic. I would never endorse a 1-5 team kicking a field goal on fourth-and-goal from the six-inch line, especially after failed attempts on 2nd and 3rd down from the six-inch lin. The team needs to be able to score a touchdown in those situations. Kicking a field goal would have been more embarrassing imo.

Tobias Hildesheim from Hamburg, Germany
Question: A sad day to be a Titans-fan. We lose our only true leader, our only starplayer, our only fan-favorite. And for what? For picks that will get us guys who we will hope to be good players. Perhaps they will be, perhaps not. Will they be as good as big Jeff? Most certainly not. 
What is the idea here? How can we rebuild if we take away our foundations, our cornerstones? I'm sorry, I don't get it. We are trading superstardom and elite skills for hope.

Jim: Good to hear from you again, Tobias. Uncertain, and trying times, for sure. The GM needs to get this right.

Matthew Diveley from Tennessee
Question: Man Jim this is Nuts how can we trade our best player we should've be dealing on a VET QB I just don't understand yes a got darted picks but dang most of the daft we done in the pass hasn't played out this team and coaching staff and upper management needs to open their eyes or something. It's crazy putting so much money in a new stadium and never gonna have a team to play in. That's just the way I feel TITAn up I guess for more year of 3 and 13 maybe.

Jim: Appreciate it, Mathew.

Rob Haye from Burlington, Ontario
Question: Hi Jim, so I emailed a couple of weeks ago regarding team needed to be sellers after the 0-5 start and I know its not the most desirable direction for any team to take, trading away a gold star premium player, but in fairness to the player, this team is not going anywhere anytime soon, and a player of Jeff's caliber deserves a chance to be on a contender, so congrats to him...
The sad part is, were 1-6 with all new coaching staff and were already in the start of what could be a fire sale, I don't think anyone was thinking it was going to be a playoff year for this team, but this year is sadly turning into a repeat of the previous number of years and were not even at the mid point yet.
We spent so much in the off season and are getting very little in return, our offense is a poor excuse and the QB play is sub par at best. Our defense can't generate any pass rush, our back end gets lit up every week, because we play a crappy version of zone defence, and it shows because they cant close out winnable games.
Oh well were on to CINCY this wknd, 1-7 come monday morning.

Jim: I hear ya, Rob.

Hector Hernandez Rojas from Teziutlan, Puebla, Mexico 
Question: Que tal Jim buen dia c�mo estas? Gracias por ell excelente trabajo que haces por mantenernos informados con lo que pasa con los Titans. Jim te escribo estas l�neas con asombro, sorpresa pero sobre todo con mucha frustracion, impotencia y mucho coraje al leer la noticia del traspaso de Big Jeff hacia los Chicago Bears, es algo que no puedo asimilar pero si entiendo porque esto es negocio y creo que esta organizacion piensa m�s en eso que en sus propios aficionados es una pena. Dejame decirte que ver el transpaso de Jeff mas crece mi admiracion por Bruce Matthews y por Mike Munchak y por ah� debe de haber otros mas, pero en el caso de estos jugadores para m� es especial porque tuvieron temporadas en el equipo muy malas y ahi estuvieron y terminaron su carrera uno Munchak como Oiler y el otro como un oiler-titan. Era admirable su lealtad y eso esperaba de Big Jeff entiendo que el jugador en un equipo de american football es un activo y los que estan en la oficina hacen y deshacen con ellos, es una pena que tanto ruido con la llegada del coach Saleh y su staff con los uniformes nuevos que dejame decirte que es lo unico bueno que han hecho en estos ultimos tiempos. Es muy facil para el HC Saleh echar por la borda otra temporada mas, y aqu� mi enojo a�n mayusculo le dieron total apertura para que trajera en la free agency a los jugadores disponibles que m�s se ajustaban a su "sistema" que para mi no tiene nada de extraordinario, y que hizo traer a su gente con contratos millonarios que no dan ningun resultado, como extra�o las �pocas del coach Glanville o del coach Padre, o del coach Fisher que como todos tambien tuvieron sus temporadas malas pero sus equipos jugaban con pasion jugaban y se morian de algo daba gusto verlos no que ahora desde la llegada del coach Callahan y aun peor con la llegada del coach Saleh, revisen y sumen las victorias que tienen entre los 3 coaches principales Saleh, Daboll y Bradley es de risa, una vez mas espero en verdad espero y deseo equivocarme con este staff y con Cam Ward, pero no me equivoque para mi desgracia ni con Vrabel, ni con Callahan ni con varios jugadores que no han dado ese extra con los Titans. Hoy extra�o jugadores que si dejaban todo en el campo Drew Bennett, Marc Mariani, Wychek, Delani Walker. El domingo estare en Cincinatti viendo el partido contra los bengals ahorre mucho para poder estar con mi familia y te dire algo estare gritando y alentando a mis Titans los cuatro cuartos que dura el juego. TITANS UP!!

Jim: ¡Hola, Héctor! Has pasado por mucho con esta franquicia y eres un gran aficionado. Espero que vengan tiempos mejores, gracias a seguidores como tú. El equipo tiene que hacer las cosas bien, porque esta racha de derrotas se ha prolongado demasiado. Nos vemos en Cincinnati. ¡Buen viaje!

Mike Tate from Chattanooga, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim, Bye Jim!!! After over 40 years of supporting the Oilers/Titans this is it for me. So what they got 2 1st round picks because Mike Bozo ain't gonna do nothing with them, so I hope he and Amy enjoy the new empty stadium.. Titan DOWN!!!!!!

Jim: Thanks for weighing in, Mike.

Charles Baker from Clarksville, Tennessee
Question: Why does GM trade our best player, draft picks for Big Jeff the best leader and all pro ... How many times do Titans trade away best players and expect to win, or are they just in rebuild mode forever? Could have signed Diego Pavia for cheap and win more games than current #1 draft pick Ward who has not shown progress...patience is wearing us fans out.

Jim: Another Diego Pavia fan out there! I still contend he should have won the Heisman Trophy.

Matt Montanaro from Toronto, Canada 
Question: Hi Jim. Is it time for the team to start asking questions about Cam Ward? His play has been inconsistent and erratic at times. Some may be blaming Daboll for his play calling but the fact is that Ward struggles to execute. He seems to shy away from running the ball himself. I thought he had opportunities to gain ground yards against the Browns but instead decided to look pass and force a play. I'm really hoping we don't have another quarterback miss on our hands.

Jim: Time to start asking questions? Hell, half of every mailbag is filled with Cam Ward questions. Until this week, when the subject changed to Jeffery Simmons.

Have a great weekend everyone!