The Tennessee Titans made a huge move, hiring former Kansas City Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Borgonzi as their new general manager. To many, Borgonzi was a surprise, as he lacked any connection to the organization, but to others, he was the top choice.
By hiring Borgonzi, the Titans are making a statement to the NFL as they start to rebuild the franchise. Borgonzi is an experienced personnel man with many connections throughout the league that should open doors with both players and organizations.
This move could also have a huge impact on the upcoming draft. The Titans have a lot of holes and need an influx of talent across the board. In fact, Tennessee sits in a situation Borgonzi is familiar with.
In 2012, the Chiefs were atrocious, finishing in 2-14, and like the Titans, earned the No. 1 pick in the 2013 draft. In need of a complete rebuild and faced with one of the weaker quarterback classes, the Chiefs attacked the roster and swung a deal for veteran Alex Smith to be the bridge quarterback instead of reaching for one in a weak class.
The Titans are now facing a similar dilemma, and his experience with the Chiefs will be invaluable as they prepare for the future. The Titans have the No. 1 pick in a draft that is considered weak on quarterback talent. They also have plenty of needs, including right tackle, wide receiver, and edge.
Borgonzi is also well-respected in league circles, and his addition should give the Titans some added respect across the NFL and with agents. Tennessee should be a hot destination with a new stadium, a growing city, and tax laws that benefit players. These factors could give the team some momentum as the offseason begins and the rebuild moves into full swing.
The Titans made a strong move that could have long-term implications for the franchise and the NFL. Now, the real work begins.
