The Tennessee Titans have taken another step in their search for a new general manager by interviewing Catherine Hickman, the Cleveland Browns’ assistant general manager. The team announced the interview on Saturday, adding Hickman to a growing list of potential candidates. Her impressive journey through the world of football makes her a standout choice for this high-profile role.
From CFL to NFL: Hickman’s Remarkable Career Path
Hickman’s rise in the football world is nothing short of inspiring. Hailing from Quebec, she began her career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), working with the Montreal Alouettes and Toronto Argonauts. During her tenure, she climbed the ranks to become an assistant general manager and director of football administration. Her talents eventually led her south of the border, where she joined the XFL’s Tampa Bay Vipers in a front office role. This move set the stage for her eventual transition to the NFL.
In Philadelphia, Hickman joined the Eagles as an operations coordinator. Her dedication and skill quickly earned her a promotion to vice president of operations. She made a significant impact during her time with the Eagles, where her work ethic and strategic vision became evident. Hickman’s accomplishments didn’t go unnoticed, and she became a sought-after talent in NFL circles. In 2022, she interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings’ general manager position, a testament to her growing reputation, though she ultimately wasn’t selected.
Later that year, Hickman made another career leap by joining the Cleveland Browns as an assistant general manager. Her time in Cleveland has been marked by notable highs and lows. In 2023, the Browns boasted one of the NFL’s top defenses and secured a playoff berth. However, the following season brought challenges, with the team struggling to find consistency and finishing with a record similar to the Tennessee Titans.
Connections That Could Shape the Titans’ Future
One of Hickman’s key strengths is her ability to build strong professional relationships. In Philadelphia, she worked alongside Dennard Wilson, who now serves as the Titans’ defensive coordinator. Her time in Cleveland also overlapped with Titans’ offensive line coach Bill Callahan. These connections could make her transition to the Titans’ front office smoother and allow her to hit the ground running if selected as general manager.
Hickman’s candidacy is further bolstered by her status as one of the NFL’s highest-ranked female executives. Her trailblazing career demonstrates her ability to excel in a competitive and often male-dominated industry. For the Titans, hiring someone with Hickman’s diverse experiences and proven leadership could signal a bold new direction for the franchise.
A Changing of the Guard in Tennessee
The Titans’ general manager position became available after the team fired Ran Carthon on January 7. Carthon’s two-year tenure ended with a disappointing 9-25 record, including a 3-14 campaign in 2024 that earned the Titans the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The team’s leadership decided it was time for a change, entrusting interim general manager Ryan Brinker with the responsibility of leading the search for Carthon’s replacement.
Brinker, who now holds final say over personnel decisions, will retain that authority even after the new general manager is hired. This dynamic underscores the importance of finding a candidate who can work collaboratively with Brinker while bringing fresh ideas and strategies to the table. Hickman’s extensive background in football operations and administration makes her a compelling option in this context.
A Competitive Pool of Candidates
Hickman is the seventh candidate to interview for the Titans’ general manager role. The team has also met with several other notable names, including:
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Reggie McKenzie: Dolphins senior personnel executive and former Oakland Raiders general manager.
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Thomas Dimitroff: Former Atlanta Falcons general manager with a track record of success.
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John Spytek: Tampa Bay Buccaneers assistant general manager.
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Ed Dodds: Indianapolis Colts assistant general manager known for his scouting expertise.
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Matt Berry: Seahawks director of player personnel.
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Terrance Gray: Buffalo Bills player personnel director.
This diverse group of candidates reflects the Titans’ commitment to finding the best possible leader for their organization. Each individual brings unique skills and experiences to the table, ensuring a thorough and competitive selection process.
What Hickman Brings to the Table
Hickman’s multifaceted career gives her a unique perspective on team building and football operations. Her time in both the CFL and NFL has equipped her with a deep understanding of player evaluation, salary cap management, and organizational strategy. Moreover, her ability to navigate different football leagues and excel at every level speaks volumes about her adaptability and determination.
Another exciting element of Hickman’s candidacy is her focus on fostering collaboration. In an industry where success often hinges on teamwork, her leadership style could help unite the Titans’ front office and coaching staff. Additionally, her track record of success with the Eagles and Browns highlights her ability to contribute to winning cultures, a quality the Titans sorely need after recent struggles.
The Road Ahead for the Titans
The Tennessee Titans face a pivotal moment in their franchise history. With the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and a need to rebuild after a disappointing season, the next general manager will play a critical role in shaping the team’s future. Catherine Hickman’s blend of experience, connections, and leadership makes her an intriguing candidate to lead this transformation.
As the Titans continue their search, the decision-makers must weigh the strengths and potential of each candidate carefully. Whether it’s Hickman or another talented executive, the team’s next general manager will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the organization’s trajectory. For Titans fans, this process represents hope and the promise of brighter days ahead.
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