Titans promote OLB coach Shane Bowen to DC

The Titans promoted outside linebackers coach Shane Bowen to defensive coordinator, per a club announcement. Between Bowen and newly-minted offensive coordinator Todd Downing, the Titans’ staff is mostly set.

Last year, it was rumored that Bowen would get bumped up to defensive coordinator following Dean Pees‘ retirement. That didn’t happen, however, as head coach Mike Vrabel kept control over the defense. This year, the longtime NFL linebacker reconsidered his position and promoted Bowen.

“Shane will move into the dedicated role of coordinator, with [special teams assistant Ryan Crow] taking over the outside linebackers this year, and I am looking forward to him growing in that role,” Vrabel said. “We are going to work hard to improve that side of the ball through better coaching, improving our system and our players. I like the group we have on the defensive staff and I am confident that we will improve.”

Before landing on Bowen, the Titans offered Pees an opportunity to return to his old job. Pees declined, however, choosing to instead make his return with the Falcons.