Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization

Peyton Manning’s legacy in Tennessee extends far beyond his 11 seasons as the Titans’ (then Oilers’) quarterback. Today, his voice remains a powerful force within the organization—offering wisdom to front-office executives, coaches, and players alike. As a franchise icon with two Super Bowl appearances and a reputation for meticulous preparation, Manning’s advice isn’t just respected; it’s often woven into the Titans’ strategic decisions, from quarterback development to building a winning culture. Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization explores the specific ways his guidance has shaped the team, the key figures he mentors, and why his perspective continues to be a cornerstone of the Titans’ pursuit of success.

Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization begins with his impact on quarterback Will Levis, the Titans’ young signal-caller entering his third NFL season. Manning first connected with Levis in 2024, after the Titans reached out to ask for help refining Levis’ mechanics and decision-making. The two met monthly during the offseason—reviewing film, practicing pre-snap reads, and discussing how to handle the pressure of leading an NFL offense. “Peyton taught me to slow the game down,” Levis said in a recent interview. “He’d show me clips of himself from his early years, pointing out how he learned to read defenses in a split second. Now, when I’m under center, I hear his voice in my head: ‘Stay calm, trust your preparation.’” Manning’s advice paid off in 2025, when Levis reduced his interception rate by 40% and led three fourth-quarter comebacks. Perhaps most valuable was Manning’s focus on leadership: he urged Levis to host weekly film sessions with wide receivers and running backs, a practice that strengthened the offense’s chemistry. “Quarterbacks don’t just throw passes—they lead,” Manning told Levis. “Your teammates need to know you’ve put in the work, too.”

Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization delves into his relationship with Titans GM Ran Carthon, who has leaned on Manning’s expertise since taking the job in 2023. The two speak regularly about roster building, with Manning emphasizing the importance of “football character” over just talent. “Peyton always says, ‘You win with guys who love the game more than the spotlight,’” Carthon recalled. “He’ll ask about a prospect’s work ethic—do they stay late to study film? Do they help rookies in practice? Those are the things that don’t show up on scouting reports, but they win championships.” Manning’s influence was evident in the Titans’ 2025 draft, where they selected defensive tackle Elijah Garcia in the seventh round—a player with modest athletic metrics but a reputation for relentless effort. Garcia went on to record 3 sacks and 8 tackles for loss as a rookie, becoming a fan favorite for his hustle. Manning also advised Carthon to prioritize retaining homegrown talent, citing his own experience with the Colts and Broncos. “When you keep players who understand your culture, you build consistency,” Manning said. “The Titans have guys like Derrick Henry and Jeffery Simmons—hold onto them. They’re the foundation.”

Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization examines his role in shaping the team’s coaching philosophy, particularly after the 2025 decision to hire a new head coach. Manning met with Carthon and team ownership to discuss what the Titans needed in their next leader, stressing the importance of a coach who could balance discipline with adaptability. “Peyton told us, ‘You need someone who can adjust their scheme to fit their players, not the other way around,’” Carthon said. That advice influenced the Titans’ decision to interview candidates like Brian Callahan (Bengals offensive coordinator) and Aaron Glenn (Lions defensive coordinator)—coaches known for tailoring their strategies to their roster’s strengths. Manning also emphasized the value of a coach who prioritizes player development, sharing stories of how his former coaches, like Tony Dungy, helped him grow both on and off the field. “A great coach doesn’t just win games—they make players better,” Manning said. For the Tennessee Titans, this guidance ensured the coaching search focused on long-term success rather than short-term fixes, a shift that has already begun to pay dividends in 2026.

Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization explores how his influence extends to the team’s culture, particularly around preparation and accountability. Each season, Manning visits the Titans’ training camp to speak to the entire team, often sharing stories of his own struggles—like his 2011 neck injury—and how he overcame them through resilience. “Peyton doesn’t talk about winning Super Bowls,” Titans linebacker Nick Westbrook-Ikhine said. “He talks about the days when it’s raining and cold, and you don’t feel like practicing—but you show up anyway. That’s the mindset we need.” Manning also encouraged the Titans to adopt a “Success is in the details” mantra, which is now displayed in the team’s locker room and referenced in every pre-game speech. The result has been a more disciplined team: the Titans reduced their penalty yards by 25% in 2026, and their turnover margin improved from -5 to +8. “Peyton’s advice isn’t about X’s and O’s—it’s about mindset,” said Titans head coach Brian Callahan. “He’s taught us that success is a habit, not a one-time effort.” For the Tennessee Titans, this cultural shift has been just as important as any roster move, creating a team that competes harder and stays focused longer.

Manning's Advice Resonates Within the Tennessee Titans Organization wraps up with the long-term impact of his guidance, as the Titans aim to return to playoff contention in 2026. Levis continues to grow as a quarterback, Garcia has become a starter on the defensive line, and the new coaching staff has built a scheme that plays to the team’s strengths. Perhaps most importantly, Manning’s presence has given the organization a sense of continuity—a link to its successful past and a roadmap for its future. “Peyton isn’t just an icon—he’s part of the Titans family,” Carthon said. “When he speaks, everyone listens because he’s been where we want to go. He’s won at the highest level, and he’s showing us how to do it, too.” For the Tennessee Titans, Manning’s advice isn’t just words—it’s a blueprint for success. As they look ahead to the 2026 season, his influence will be felt in every film session, every practice, and every game—reminding the team that greatness is built through preparation, leadership, and a love for the game. In the end, that’s the legacy Peyton Manning leaves in Tennessee: not just the records or the wins, but an organization that knows how to compete, and how to win the right way.