When Tony Pollard signed with the Tennessee Titans during the 2024 NFL offseason, he knew he wasn’t just changing teams—he was changing his mindset. After five seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, the dynamic running back found himself at a crossroads: once touted as the heir to Ezekiel Elliott, Pollard’s 2023 campaign left fans and analysts wondering whether he could truly be a lead back. Now with the Titans, he’s aiming to prove he can be even more than that.
In a recent interview with reporters during OTAs, Pollard opened up about the mental shift he’s undergone since joining the Titans.
“This is a fresh start,” Pollard said. “A new city, a new scheme, and a new chance to show what I can really do. I’m not looking back—I’m locked in.”
Leaving Dallas, Leaving Doubt
Pollard’s final season with the Cowboys wasn’t what many expected. After a breakout 2022 where he eclipsed 1,300 scrimmage yards and was named to the Pro Bowl, expectations soared for his first full season as the Cowboys’ featured back. But the 2023 campaign saw a dip in production. Despite finishing with 1,005 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns, he lacked the explosive plays that had become his trademark.
Critics cited Dallas’ offensive line struggles and offensive playcalling, but Pollard himself took accountability.
“There were games I know I left plays on the field,” he admitted. “That’s on me.”
In Tennessee, Pollard sees a chance to reset the narrative. With Derrick Henry now a Baltimore Raven, Pollard steps into a lead role in a Titans offense undergoing a major transformation under new head coach Brian Callahan.
Embracing a Versatile Role
Callahan, who arrives in Tennessee after serving as offensive coordinator in Cincinnati, is building an offense around quarterback Will Levis and a fast-paced, pass-heavy scheme. For Pollard, that means more touches in space, more receptions out of the backfield, and the ability to use his elite speed in creative ways.
“They want me to be more than just a runner,” Pollard said. “Screens, wheel routes, lining up in the slot—this is the kind of role I’ve always wanted.”
Pollard’s receiving ability has always been a part of his game, but in Dallas, it was often underutilized. In Tennessee, he’s already seeing more reps in passing drills and even splitting out wide during practice.
Offensive coordinator Nick Holz emphasized Pollard’s versatility: “He’s a matchup problem. Linebackers can’t cover him, and safeties can’t keep up with him. We plan to take full advantage of that.”
Physical and Mental Rebuild
One of the quiet storylines of Pollard’s 2023 season was his recovery from a broken leg suffered in the 2022 playoffs. While he returned to action without missing time, Pollard now admits he didn’t feel like himself until late in the season.
“I was cleared to play, but mentally, it was still there. Every cut, every hit—it was in the back of my mind.”
With a full offseason to train without rehab, Pollard says he’s finally regained the burst and confidence that made him one of the NFL’s most efficient backs. According to Titans running backs coach Randy Jordan, the difference is already noticeable.
“You can see it in his acceleration, in his cuts. He’s trusting his body again.”
Pollard credits a new training regimen and a focus on mental resilience for the change. He’s been working with a sports psychologist and implementing mindfulness exercises into his daily routine.
“It’s not just about being in shape,” he said. “It’s about being sharp—mentally tough. I want to be the guy this team can count on, no matter the moment.”
Leading by Example
Though not the vocal leader that Henry was in the Titans’ locker room, Pollard is earning respect with his work ethic and focus. Younger backs like rookie Jaylen Wright and third-year back Hassan Haskins have taken notice.
“He’s always the first one on the field,” Wright said. “He doesn’t talk a lot, but he works. You see that and you want to match it.”
The Titans’ running back room may not have a future Hall of Famer like Henry anymore, but with Pollard leading the way, they have a back hungry to redefine his career—and help a franchise in transition find its footing.
Looking Ahead
As the Titans prepare for the 2025 season, expectations remain measured. The AFC South is still tough, with the Texans and Jaguars boasting rising young stars. But Tennessee’s front office believes they’ve built a balanced roster—and Pollard could be the X-factor.
He knows that the doubters are still out there. He’s heard the questions about whether he’s truly a three-down back, whether his best football is behind him. But rather than fueling frustration, those doubts have lit a different kind of fire.
“I’m not trying to prove anyone wrong,” Pollard said with a smile. “I’m just trying to prove myself right.”
Let me know if you’d like a version formatted for social media or a shorter summary for headlines.
Be the first to comment