Head of Titans ownership Tommy Smith, the team’s president and CEO, appeared today on 104.5 The Zone in Tennessee to discuss his club. At 2-6, the Titans are on their third quarterback of the season and have fallen out of postseason contention early in Ken Whisenhunt‘s first year with the team. While Smith expressed disappointment with the team’s record and place in the standings, he said he’s optimistic and looking forward to seeing what rookie Zach Mettenberger can do in the second half. Via Paul Kuharsky of ESPN.com, here are a few more highlights from Smith’s appearance:
- According to Smith, he speaks to general manager Ruston Webster every day and Whisenhunt two or three times per week. Asked if there’s any scenario in which he can imagine making a change at GM or head coach, Smith replied, “I can’t see that at all, no.”
- The Titans came into the season optimistic about the roster, but Smith recognizes there are many areas that need improvement and that there’s a lot of work to do. Admitting that he’s impatient and wants to see results immediately, the owner acknowledged that the team must be realistic about where it is. He identified the offensive line as one of the biggest disappointments on the roster, adding that he has told Whisenhunt he doesn’t care about where someone was drafted or what they’re being paid — if they’re not getting it done, they can be replaced.
- More Smith on the offensive line, which includes high draft picks Chance Warmack and Taylor Lewan, as well as offseason signee Michael Oher: “We have to get consistent performance out of the line. I know the coach is as upset about this as anyone. I know the players are professionals, they expect more of themselves. I’m hopeful and trustful that in the second half of the season we’re going to see better performance out of that group.”
- Smith indicated that the Titans would be happy to play a game in London if the league approached the club about it. However, he didn’t say whether or not he’d be willing to give up a home game to do so.