A Heavy Load in 2024
Tony Pollard took on a major role in his first season with the Tennessee Titans, recording a career-high 260 carries for 1,079 yards and five touchdowns. But head coach Brian Callahan has plans to reduce that workload in 2025 to keep the running back fresher throughout the season.
Callahan’s Assessment
“He was battling the second half of the year quite a bit,” Callahan said of Pollard, via the team’s official website. “But I think in a perfect world, it’s a healthier division of labor. I think he ended up carrying the ball a lot. He was our most productive running back. And then Tyjae (Spears) had some injuries early, too. So, he ended up playing a lot early and then Tyjae sort of came on as the year went on further.”
Callahan values both backs and is looking for a more even split moving forward. “So, I like really both of those players a lot. I think we can do a better job of managing that load so they both play a little more evenly and allows us to maybe have a spot for a third back between Julius (Chestnut) and Kalel (Mullings), some heavier-style back and runner.”
“So hopefully that division of labor gets a little more evenly distributed so he doesn’t have to take the brunt of it. And we can get 17 games out of all those guys at their best.”
Pollard’s Perspective
Pollard joined the Titans after his time in Dallas with questions about whether he could be the main back while still producing explosive plays. While he managed his third straight 1,000-yard season, the number of breakaway runs remained below his 2022 Pro Bowl level.
Still, Pollard is on board with the team’s plan for a more balanced backfield. “Whatever way we can contribute to the success of the team,” Pollard said. “Getting more guys involved, keeping guys fresh, whatever it is that is going to keep us winning games and keep guys fresh throughout the season, it’s ideal.”
