Tommy Smith retires as Titans president, CEO
Tommy Smith is retiring from his role as president and CEO of the Tennessee Titans.
Smith took over for the late Bud Adams as president and CEO in October 2013.
Steve Underwood will work on an interim basis to oversee operations and search for a new president, Smith said #Titans
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) March 20, 2015
Tennessee has struggled immensely during Smith's reign as president and CEO, posting a cumulative 9-23 record over the past two seasons.
"It's a personal decision for me. I will be 64 in a few weeks and I want to spend my energy where it's needed most," Smith said to Wyatt.
It appears to be a sudden change of heart for Smith, as he attempted to convince the team's fan base that the Titans were on pace to have a better future in a letter issued to season ticket-holders last February.
"I know last year was difficult, but you have my word that we are doing everything we can to improve all aspects of our organization,'' Smith wrote. "Our primary focus is winning football games and doing all we can to make that happen."
Although he's retiring, Smith appears to stand by the statement he made in last month's letter.
"We are in good shape. We have good people. I think the future is bright for the team."
The Titans hold the second overall pick in next month's NFL Draft, but have a long way to go in their rebuilding process.