Former Tennessee Titans Head Coach Mike Vrabel. Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK

Chargers should add former Coach of the Year to head-coaching wish list

While Michigan's Jim Harbaugh seems like the Los Angeles Chargers' preferred choice, they should add Mike Vrabel to their list of potential head-coaching candidates.

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Titans fired Vrabel — 2021 Coach of the Year — Tuesday after two straight losing seasons. Don't pin Tennessee's struggles on the 48-year-old, though. 

In 2022, the Titans dealt star wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles, hampering their offense. Jason La Canfora of The Washington Post reported Vrabel and first-year general manager Ran Carthon had a tense relationship, creating more problems. He also signaled the Chargers could pursue him. 

In six seasons with Tennessee, he went 54-45 and made three playoff appearances despite never having an elite quarterback. During his tenure, the Titans juggled through starters, including Marcus Mariota, Ryan Tannehill, Malik Willis and rookie Will Levis. He would thrive with an elite player like Justin Herbert.

An NFL coach recently told The Athletic's Mike Sando that Harbaugh — who helped the Wolverines capture their first national championship in 26 years — wants to coach the Chargers. However, Michigan reportedly offered him a 10-year, $125M contract extension with a no-NFL clause. Perhaps the lucrative deal will convince him to stay in college.

ESPN's Ed Werder noted Vrabel could become the Patriots' next HC if they move on from Bill Belichick. He starred as a linebacker for New England from 2001-08, winning three Super Bowls. Still, L.A. could be a more attractive destination since they already have a franchise QB.

Regardless, the Chargers should keep their options open. They must nail their next hire after a disappointing 5-12 season. Brandon Staley — fired after Week 15 — underwhelmed in three seasons. He went 24-24 and had no playoff wins.

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