Less than two years after replacing long-time owner Bud Adams as Tennessee Titans president and CEO, Tommy Smith is retiring from those roles.
The team made the announcement on Friday, explaining that Smith will now focus on his career as president and chairman of Adams Resources and Energy, Inc.
"We have made some moves within the Titans organization, both on and off the field, that I believe will bring some very positive immediate results," Smith said in a statement. "There is a side of me that wishes I could continue to be heavily involved, but I will remain an avid Titans fan while leaving those decisions in the hands of professionals who are fully focused."
Steve Underwood, who oversaw day-to-day operations of the Titans for six years before retiring in 2011, will run the team until a permanent replacement is found.
Titans fans should greet the news with open arms, as Smith created unrest and was unable to dedicate himself to the job while operating from Houston. Adams' daughters will choose the next CEO, who will ostensibly offer a much stronger football background.
In the face of rumors that Peyton Manning would be interested in purchasing the Titans after his retirement, Smith insisted just two months ago that the franchise is not for sale.
Smith added Friday, via the Tennessean, that the organization is "in good shape" and the "future is bright for the team."
The Titans finished with a league-worst 2-14 record in Smith's only full year overseeing the operation. They haven't been to the playoffs since the 2008 season.
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