Established
1960
City
Houston - Nashville
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1960 - 1969 / American Football League
Team History
1999 - Present / Tennessee Titans
1997 - 1998 / Tennessee Oilers
1960 - 1996 / Houston Oilers
Nickname
Titans - The Tennessee Titans are one of the most beloved teams in the NFL, but did you know their nickname has an interesting origin story? The team was founded as the Houston Oilers in 1960 and was an American Football League (AFL) charter member. After relocating to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1997, they rebranded themselves as “the Titans.” But why do they have this name?
Tennessee Titans Origin
The answer lies in Greek mythology. According to legend, twelve gods lived atop Mount Olympus on Mt. Othrys and ruled over mankind from there – collectively known as “the Titans.” It is said that Zeus overthrew them and became ruler of all Olympian deities; however, even after being defeated by Zeus, their strength remained legendary throughout history – much like how football players today strive for greatness despite adversity or defeat! In addition to paying homage to Greek mythology with its new moniker, it also serves another purpose: representing power & strength, which makes perfect sense when considering what professional athletes must be capable of achieving on any given Sunday!
As a sports fan, it is always exciting when you discover new information about your favorite teams - so now you know where exactly Tennessee Titan's nickname comes from!
Championship
Super Bowl 0
AFL Championship 0
1961, 1960
Stadium
2016 - Present / Nissan Stadium
2007 - 2015 / LP Field
2002 - 2006 / The Coliseum
1999 - 2002 / Adelphia Coliseum
1998 / Vanderbilt Stadium
1997 / Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
*Houston*
1968 - 1996 / Houston Astrodome
1965 - 1967 / Rice Stadium
1960 - 1964 / Jeppesen Stadium
Owner
2013 - Present / KSA Industries
1960 - 2013 / Bud Adams
- 1999
- 2000
- 2017
- 2018
- 2020
-
Oilers new nickname – Titans
During the 1998 season, Adams announced that in response to fan requests, he was changing the Oilers’ name to coincide with the opening of their new stadium and to better connect with Nashville. He also declared that the renamed team would retain the Oilers’ heritage (including team records), as had all other relocated teams except the Browns/Ravens, and that there ... -
Titans wins its first AFC Central title
In 2000: The team wins its first AFC Central title and makes another deep playoff run, but loses to the Baltimore Ravens in the divisional round. -
The team wins its first postseason game since 2003, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs
In 2017: The team makes its first playoff appearance since 2008 and wins its first postseason game since 2003, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 22-21 in a wild card game. The team loses to the New England Patriots 35-14 in the divisional round. -
The team hires Mike Vrabel as head coach
In 2018: The team hires Mike Vrabel as head coach, replacing Mularkey who was fired after one playoff season. -
Titans wins AFC South title
In 2020: The team wins its first AFC South title since 2008 and finishes with an 11-5 record. Henry becomes only the eighth player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season, leading the league with 2,027 yards. Tannehill also has a career year, throwing for 3,819 yards and 33 touchdowns. However, the team loses to ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Tennessee Titans History
The Tennessee Titans history began in 1960 when the franchise was founded as the Houston Oilers, one of the original American Football League (AFL) teams. The Oilers quickly found success, winning the first two AFL Championships in 1960 and 1961. In 1997, the team relocated to Tennessee, initially known as the Tennessee Oilers, before adopting the permanent Tennessee Titans name in 1999.
Over the years, many legendary players shaped Tennessee Titans football. Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon led the Oilers through the 1980s with an explosive passing attack. Other stars included running back Eddie George, who surpassed 10,000 rushing yards, and offensive lineman Bruce Matthews, one of the most durable and respected players in NFL history. The franchise also benefited from wide receiver Derrick Mason, who set several team records during his career.
The highlight of the Tennessee Titans history came in the 1999 season. Under head coach Jeff Fisher, the Titans finished 13–3 and reached Super Bowl XXXIV. Although they fell just one yard short of tying the game against the St. Louis Rams in a dramatic finish, quarterback Steve McNair and rookie sensation Jevon Kearse cemented their place in football history. That Super Bowl run remains one of the most iconic moments in Tennessee Titans football.
Tennessee Titans Achievements
In the 2000s, the Titans made several playoff appearances, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game in 2002. Later, the franchise continued to build around stars like running back Chris Johnson, who rushed for over 2,000 yards in the 2009 season. More recently, the team found success under head coach Mike Vrabel, winning multiple AFC South titles and reaching the AFC Championship Game in 2019. This era reaffirmed the competitive spirit of the Titans and their importance in the NFL.
The Tennessee Titans history is defined by resilience, legendary players, and unforgettable games. With a strong foundation and dedicated fans, the Titans remain focused on building toward future championships. To learn more about the full history of the franchise, visit the official Tennessee Titans Wikipedia page.
Sports Fan Products
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Retired Number
1 / Warren Moon
9 / Steve McNair
27 / Eddie George
34 / Earl Campbell
43 / Jim Norton
63 / Mike Munchak
65 / Elvin Bethea
74 / Bruce Matthews
*Blue is this team’s history
