It’s the end of an era in Nashville after the Tennessee Titans decided to release punter Brett Kern on Monday, which means rookie punter Ryan Stonehouse has won the starting job.
After being released, Kern issued a statement thanking the team and its fans for 13 great years in Nashville.
“First and foremost, I want to say it has been an honor and a privilege to wear the two toned blue for the past 13 years,” Kern wrote. “From the bottom of my heart, I can’t thank you enough for your love and support and allowing my family and I to call this beautiful city home. When my wife and I came to Nashville in 2009, our son was eight weeks old. Over the years, all my family has known on Sundays is to cheer for the Titans and No. 6 from section 137, row 4, seats 1-4. They love this place and the fans here just as much as I do.
“As I reflect on my time here, I think about the mountain-top experiences and memories that I will never forget, to the challenges that molded me into becoming a better husband, father, teammate and friend.
“I will never forget watching two running backs rush for 2K, holding a game-winning kick in zero-degree weather, experiencing a playoff run that almost took us to the Super Bowl, going to three Pro Bowls with my family and teammates, jumping out of cardboard boxes in the hallway to scare the rookies, being able to lead Bible studies and chapel or prayer before games, and probably my most favorite, hearing the cheers of Nissan Stadium after pinning a team deep.
“I am most thankful for the amazing people that I have met over the years. From coaches and general managers that have believed in me, to teammates, equipment staff, operation staff, trainers and everyone else that works in the building. You will forever have an impact on my life, and I hope and pray I did the same for you and your families. Thank you for your love, support and loyalty. Love you all!”
Thank you Titans Family 💙 pic.twitter.com/Z7jFFQIJWs
— Brett Kern (@brettkern6) August 29, 2022
General manager Jon Robinson also issued a statement on Kern’s release.
“Brett embodies everything we look for in players for the Tennessee Titans,” Robinson said. “He has been at the top of his game for a long time in this league, has been an outstanding leader for us, and has been an excellent representation of the Titans in our community. I’m blessed to have worked with him, and on behalf of the entire organization, we wish him all the best moving forward.”
