BREAKING NEWS: Titans Star DT Jeffery Simmons Speaks Out on Future in Nashville After Coach Callahan’s Comment
NASHVILLE, TN — June 29, 2025
In a development that has stirred the hearts of Tennessee Titans fans and sparked fierce debate across the NFL, star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons has publicly addressed the growing uncertainty surrounding his future in Nashville. His comments come in direct response to a recent statement by first-year head coach Brian Callahan, who hinted that even the team’s most established veterans might not be guaranteed a place in the Titans’ long-term plans.
Simmons, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the emotional leaders of the Titans locker room, did not shy away from the topic, speaking candidly during a media session after Saturday’s team workout.
“Let’s be real — I heard what Coach said,” Simmons began. “I’ve always been a straight shooter, and I’ll continue to be. I want to be in Tennessee. I want to win here. I’ve put my body on the line, played through injuries, showed up as a leader, and represented this franchise the right way since day one. But I also understand that this league is a business. And when you hear phrases like ‘no one is untouchable,’ you’ve got to take a step back and look at what that really means.”
The Comment That Sparked It All
The quote Simmons is referring to came earlier in the week during an interview Coach Callahan gave on Nashville’s 104.5 The Zone, where he discussed the organization’s direction after a whirlwind offseason that included the acquisition of former Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson, a revamped coaching staff, and new emphasis on a younger, faster roster.
“We’re in a transitional phase,” Callahan said at the time. “To build a long-term winner, you have to evaluate every piece. No one is untouchable. We’ll make decisions that are best for the future of this franchise, even if they’re difficult.”
While Callahan did not mention Simmons specifically, his words were interpreted by many — including national pundits — as potentially referring to several high-priced veterans, with Simmons chief among them. Simmons is in the second year of a four-year, $94 million extension signed in April 2023 and carries one of the highest cap hits on the team going into the 2026 season.
Simmons: “This City Means Something to Me”
Now 27, Simmons is entering the prime of his career and is widely regarded as one of the most disruptive interior linemen in the NFL. In 2024, despite battling through a nagging knee injury, he still managed 6.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, and 17 quarterback hits — elite numbers for a defensive tackle who regularly faces double-teams.
Beyond the stat sheet, Simmons is known for his leadership, toughness, and passion for the game. His energy is infectious, and his commitment to the team has never been in question. That’s what made his response to Callahan’s comments so poignant.
“I’m not just out here playing for a paycheck,” Simmons continued. “I’ve grown here. I became a man in this city. I bought a home here. I’ve mentored young guys, I’ve worked with charities, I’ve shown love to the fans — because this city means something to me. So yeah, when I hear people wondering if I’m part of the future, it hits different.”
Titans Fans React
The reaction from Titans fans was swift and emotional. Social media lit up with support for Simmons, with fans using hashtags like #KeepBigJeff and #SimmonsIsTheFuture to express their backing for the star defender. Many were quick to draw comparisons to the departure of former wide receiver A.J. Brown, who was traded to the Eagles in 2022 despite being a fan favorite.
“I’ll riot if they let Simmons go,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “You don’t find many players like him — leaders, warriors, and guys who genuinely love this team.”
Local sports talk radio echoed similar sentiments, with several hosts warning that moving on from Simmons would be a huge mistake for a franchise already fighting to re-establish its identity under new leadership.
The Organization’s Position
So far, neither Coach Callahan nor General Manager Ran Carthon has clarified Simmons’ future. A team source speaking anonymously said that while Simmons is “absolutely valued,” the coaching staff is committed to a “year-by-year” evaluation process that considers age, health, contract structure, and team needs.
Privately, there are rumblings that Tennessee is exploring ways to create additional salary cap flexibility for 2026, and while Simmons remains under contract through 2027, the guaranteed money significantly drops off after next season — making it financially feasible to move on via trade or restructure if needed.
Simmons Focused, But Not Naive
When asked how he plans to approach the 2025 season amid the uncertainty, Simmons didn’t hesitate.
“I’m going to show up every day and dominate. That’s what I do,” he said. “But I won’t pretend I don’t hear the whispers. I’m just going to let my play speak — and let the front office decide what kind of team they want to be.”
Whether those decisions include Jeffery Simmons long-term remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: if the Titans are serious about building a championship culture, they’ll have to think long and hard before parting ways with the player who has been its heartbeat for the last half-decade.
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