Dennard Wilson has helped defenses improve since his coaching career began in 2012. Wilson, who played safety and cornerback at a high level in college, has a passion for working with defenses and enhancing defensive back play. Since 2015, Wilson has served as the designated defensive back coach for several teams, including the 2022 Philadelphia Eagles and this year’s Baltimore Ravens. Throughout Wilson’s coaching career, he has helped defensive backs improve their productivity and win numerous awards. Wilson was able to help safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson have the best statistical season of his career with the Eagles in 2022.
Gardner-Johnson had six interceptions in 12 games, which is twice as much as he has in any previous season. These performance increases boosted Wilson’s stock asa defensive coach, earning him the new defensive coordinator position with the Tennessee Titans.
Since their early playoff exit in 2021, the Titans have struggled significantly in passing defense. The Titans allowed the most passing yards per game in 2022 and did not improve enough in 2023 to feel confident moving into next season. In fairness, the Titans have dealt with multiple defensive ailments and traded safety Keven Byard to the Eagles in the middle of the season. However, these considerations do not negate the necessity for improved secondary play. Wilson can enhance the relatively youthful secondary play since he has done so before.
Wilson coached talented safety Jamal Adams for the New York Jets, helping him have two of his greatest statistical seasons in 2018 and 2019. With the majority of secondary students still in their mid-20s,Wilson can help them develop into solid NFL starters.
Wilson’s most recent two coaching jobs were with the Eagles and Ravens, both of whom had elite defenses. Thankfully, Wilson will be working with some decent talent on the Titans in 2024. Although quality dipped with Byard’s departure, the Titans still have standout defensive end Jeffery Simmons and linebacker Harold Landry III. Additionally, the Titans can keep defensive end Denico Autry to help with their poor pass rush. Another significant re-signing is linebackere Azez Al-Shaair, who will be available in free agency this offseason. Making these changes will allow Wilson to focus on improving the secondary, as the linebacker and defensive line play will already be decent. Several players have shown promise in the secondary, including second-round pick cornerback Roger McCreary. So, if Wilson can help McCreary grow, the Titans could
Wilson has coached four different NFL clubs throughout the course of his 12-year career. The ability to join new teams and contribute to their success shows that he can collaborate effectively with new coaching staff. This versatility will be critical to the Titans’ success next season, given the new coaching regime that will take effect in 2024. Wilson’s first season as defensive coordinator will require him to swiftly adjust to his new role and coaching staff. However, being hired in February will allow Wilson plenty of time to get to know the players and prepare for his first game as an official defensive coordinator. Although the season might go many various ways because of the team’s multiple changes, many supporters are eager to see aNew Titans defense in 2024.
