The Tennessee Titans announced the hiring of Dave Gardi as their new executive vice president of football operations, a role that will place him at the center of the franchise’s strategic and operational decisions. The announcement comes after Chad Brinker’s departure and a series of restructuring moves within the front office.
A veteran with deep NFL roots
Gardi arrives after two decades spent in the league office, where he rose to senior vice president of football operations under commissioner Roger Goodell. Prior to that, he served as senior VP of football initiatives for the Washington Commanders, overseeing analytics, research and team strategy.
In his new position, Gardi will report directly to general manager Mike Borgonzi, who has been elevated to a more powerful role after the firing of former GM Ran Carthon. His portfolio will include football administration, strategy, analytics, research and overall team operations, making him a top lieutenant alongside assistant GM Dave Ziegler.
Strategic implications
The hiring reflects the Titans’ intent to blend traditional scouting with data‑driven decision‑making, a combination that could reshape roster construction and game planning. Observers note the move mirrors the New York Giants’ recent addition of Dawn Aponte to a key front office role, signaling a league‑wide trend toward hiring executives with both operational and analytical expertise.
With Gardi’s extensive experience and Borgonzi’s expanded authority, the Titans aim to restore competitiveness in the AFC South while building a more cohesive and forward‑thinking football department.