​Robert Saleh kept it real when discussing the Titans’ upcoming clash with the Jets in 2026, and the Tennessee Titans’ offense is poised to look notably different heading into the new season. Cam Ward will enter a pivotal year of development, aided by the arrival of a new offensive coordinator, Brian Daboll, who has already been vocal about his optimism for the quarterback. Ward didn’t meet the lofty expectations set for him during his rookie season, but with Daboll’s track record—helping Josh Allen reach crucial development milestones—it could prove to be the right environment to elevate Ward into one of the premier players at his position.
Beyond Ward’s growth, the Titans’ supporting cast will play a critical role in helping him succeed on the field. An NFL analyst has highlighted a member of Tennessee’s offensive unit who could emerge as a breakout contributor in 2026. The Titans appear poised to lean on a second-year addition in the coming season, and the team’s offense stands to transform with the coaching staff’s changes and the surrounding core around Cam Ward.
Tennessee didn’t showcase standout receiving totals in 2025, as no player topped 600 receiving yards and only two players reached four receiving touchdowns. Looking ahead to 2026, the offense will look different as new coaches settle in and the surrounding weapons grow into more prominent roles. An ESPN analyst foresees a tight end becoming a breakout star for the Titans next season.
ESPN’s Ben Solak published breakout projections for every team, naming Tennessee’s second-year tight end Gunnar Helm as a potential breakout candidate. Solak praised Helm’s physical toolkit, noting his length, size, speed, ball skills, and toughness as traits that translate well to the NFL. “If he’s an A-plus in any one trait, it’s his ability to track and adjust to the football. He makes the kind of tough, downfield catches a tight end needs to become an explosive-play weapon,” Solak wrote. He also pointed out that Helm won’t lead the team in receptions due to the offseason additions of Wan’Dale Robinson and Carnell Tate, but characterized him as a quarterback-friendly third option who could contribute as a blocker and, with refined technique, maximize his athletic gifts.
Solak added that Helm’s lightbulb moment seemed imminent last season, and with increased attention on Tennessee in the coming year, he could gain national recognition by this time next year. During Ward’s rookie season, Helm was targeted 55 times, catching 44 balls for 357 yards and two touchdowns. Those numbers came while Helm functioned as the second option at tight end behind Chig Okonkwo, who led the Titans in receiving yardage.
If Helm continues to develop, he could become Tennessee’s primary tight end option heading into 2026, increasing his role and snap count as he enters his second season. The Titans’ coaching staff, led by Saleh, will be counting on Helm to grow into a more consistent target for Ward and to contribute as a reliable blocker as well. With the prospect of an enhanced offensive framework and improved play design, Helm’s trajectory looks favorable for a breakout year, potentially earning him national attention as the Titans push toward a more dynamic and versatile offense in 2026.