Steve Underwood has been with the Tennessee Titans organization from the beginning. In fact, before the beginning. But Underwood is retiring from full-time duties, though he will remain with the team as a consultant.
The now-former team president started with the organization in 1991 when they were still the Houston Oilers. The team relocated to Tennessee and became the Titans in 1997.
Through some crazy, unsteady times for the franchise, when Bud Adams had faded and after he died, Steve Underwood was the guy who kept the #Titans from really falling apart. Huge figure in team history.
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) May 8, 2020
In the time since announcing his retirement, Underwood has gone somewhat viral on the internet among sports fans for his unique style of facial hair.
In honor of @Titans President Steve Underwood (and his incredible facial hair) retiring: pic.twitter.com/WIWpL1oolH
— DraftKings (@DraftKings) May 8, 2020
Tennessee (and the Houston Oilers) maintained a marginal level of success under Underwood’s stewardship. The organization made its only Super Bowl appearance to cap off the 1999 season, finishing little more than a yard short of upsetting the St. Louis Rams and their “Greatest show on turf” team.
Burke Nihill, who joined the franchise five years ago and has held several positions, most recently senior vice president, takes over as team president in Underwood’s place.
Because of the location of the team, and news that the organization’s power structure is undergoing this change, it’s not out of line to wonder if Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning will find his way into the Titans’ upper-management in the near future. Manning, of course, is an alumnus of the University of Tennessee.
That will, of course, remains to be seen. In the meantime, the Titans are coming off a surprise appearance in the AFC Championship game behind the punishing running of Derrick Henry and a resurgent Ryan Tannehill at quarterback paired with a solid defense. Tennessee enters this season will as high hopes as they’ve had since perhaps that Super Bowl appearance.
