NASHVILLE – Tennessee Titans coach Mike Munchak fired offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger and two other assistants in starting to remake his staff a day after taking over the top job.
Heimerdinger, who is continuing cancer treatment after being diagnosed in November, confirmed Tuesday to The Associated Press that he had been let go. The Titans released a statement a couple of hours later that Munchak also told defensive assistant Rayna Stewart and offensive assistant Richie Wessman that they will not be retained.
“It’s never easy to be fired,” Heimerdinger said. “He has to do what’s good for the Titans, and Munch will do what’s best for the Titans. I appreciate my time here, but it’s never easy to be fired.”
The Titans gave Munchak the freedom to keep or hire anyone he wants, and he promised changes when he was introduced Monday. He let go the coordinator who was the second coach interviewed to replace Jeff Fisher. Munchak said it wasn’t an easy move involving a man he respects as an innovative offensive mind and for how he has fought cancer.
“We have worked well through the years, but I believe we need to go in a different direction at offensive coordinator,” Munchak said. “This wasn’t about his health – he is feeling good – it is a change of direction for us. This is not something that I take lightly, and I wish him and his family the best.”