Nashville, TN — May 23, 2025
The Tennessee Titans are turning a significant page in their offensive identity, and head coach Brian Callahan made it clear this week: newly signed running back Tony Pollard will be at the center of it — but in a changed role designed to maximize his speed, versatility, and explosiveness.
This announcement comes as the Titans continue to reshape their offense following the departure of Derrick Henry, the franchise icon who signed with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency earlier this year. With Henry gone, the Titans brought in Pollard — a former Dallas Cowboys standout — to fill the void. But rather than replicate Henry’s punishing, workhorse role, Callahan is taking a different approach.
“We didn’t bring in Tony Pollard to be Derrick Henry 2.0,” Callahan said. “Tony’s skill set is unique, and we’re going to utilize that. This offense is going to look different — faster, more flexible, and more balanced. Tony will be a big part of that evolution.”
A Different Kind of Backfield
Pollard, 27, is coming off a solid 2023 campaign in Dallas, where he rushed for 1,005 yards and six touchdowns, proving he could handle RB1 responsibilities after years behind Ezekiel Elliott. Known for his burst, pass-catching ability, and open-field elusiveness, Pollard offers a more modern, dual-threat option than Henry’s power-running style.
Callahan revealed that Pollard will be featured in a more dynamic and multidimensional role, lining up not only in traditional sets but also in motion, split out wide, and in two-back formations alongside second-year running back Tyjae Spears.
“We want to put defenses in conflict,” Callahan explained. “With Tony and Tyjae on the field at the same time, we can stretch teams horizontally and vertically. It’s going to be fun to watch.”
Complementing Tyjae Spears, Not Replacing Him
The new offensive design doesn’t spell reduced opportunities for Tyjae Spears, who impressed in his rookie season with 838 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns. Instead, Callahan envisions the two backs sharing responsibilities, creating matchup nightmares for opposing defenses.
“Tyjae showed us he’s ready for a bigger role, too,” Callahan said. “We’re not choosing between them — we’re using both to their strengths.”
Insiders at Titans camp say the playbook features creative packages with both backs on the field, including run-pass options (RPOs), screens, jet motion plays, and even occasional wildcat looks.
A New Era of Titans Offense
Brian Callahan, hired this offseason after years as the Bengals’ offensive coordinator, is bringing a more modern and versatile scheme to Nashville — one that prioritizes space, tempo, and creativity. With quarterback Will Levis entering a crucial development year, the presence of two versatile backs in Pollard and Spears could be critical in easing pressure and opening up the playbook.
“The days of 30 carries up the gut might be over,” one Titans offensive assistant said. “But that doesn’t mean we’ll be any less dangerous on the ground — we’re just doing it differently.”
What’s Next
As OTAs continue and training camp approaches, fans can expect to see more of how Callahan intends to deploy his new-look backfield. Pollard, for his part, has embraced the challenge.
“I’m excited,” Pollard said. “This system fits me. It’s about making plays, being unpredictable, and winning. That’s what I’m here to do.”
With a reimagined backfield and a forward-thinking head coach, the Tennessee Titans are signaling a bold new chapter — and Tony Pollard is ready to help write it.
