The Tennessee Titans are more than a football team in Nashville—they are a symbol of the city’s sports culture and a franchise with deep roots. From their start as the Houston Oilers in 1960 to their rebranding in 1999, the Titans have experienced major changes on and off the field. Many fans wonder who owns Tennessee Titans today, and the answer reveals a story of family legacy, leadership, and continuity in the NFL.
Tennessee Titans Profile
The Tennessee Titans are one of the NFL’s most established franchises, blending tradition with modern competitiveness. Originally launched as the Houston Oilers, the team has gone through relocations, name changes, and cultural shifts that shaped its identity.
With decades of history, multiple playoff runs, and ownership continuity within the Adams family, the Titans stand as both a legacy team and a forward-looking organization in 2025.
Founders and Early History
Kenneth Stanley “Bud” Adams Jr. was the founder of the franchise. A businessman and oil magnate from Houston, Texas, Adams was one of the driving forces behind the creation of the American Football League (AFL) in 1960. Alongside fellow visionary Lamar Hunt, he helped bring professional football competition to regions outside the NFL’s reach.
Adams’ Houston Oilers were immediate contenders, winning AFL championships in 1960 and 1961. His influence was crucial in the 1970 AFL–NFL merger, which shaped modern professional football. While his business empire revolved around oil, aviation, and real estate, Adams’ true passion was football.
His decision to relocate the team to Tennessee in the late 1990s remains one of the most impactful moves in NFL history, establishing a franchise that Nashville quickly embraced.
Bud Adams remained the team’s owner until his death in 2013, after which the team passed to his heirs, keeping the Adams family legacy alive in the NFL.
Major Milestones
- 1960: Houston Oilers founded by Bud Adams; joined the AFL as a charter team.
- 1960: Win the AFL Championship in their debut season.
- 1961: Oilers claim back-to-back AFL Championships.
- 1969: Final AFL season before the merger; Oilers finish as one of the ten AFL teams merging into the NFL.
- 1970: AFL–NFL merger completed; Oilers join the NFL.
- 1978: Oilers return to the playoffs behind quarterback Dan Pastorini and star running back Earl Campbell.
- 1979: Houston makes it to the AFC Championship Game but loses to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- 1987: Franchise drafts quarterback Warren Moon from the CFL, sparking a new era of success.
- 1991–1993: Oilers make three consecutive playoff appearances under head coach Jack Pardee.
- 1997: Team relocates from Houston to Tennessee; temporarily called the Tennessee Oilers.
- 1999: Rebranded as the Tennessee Titans; reached Super Bowl XXXIV but lost to the St. Louis Rams in a dramatic finish.
- 2002: Titans win the AFC South division in their first year of existence after the NFL realignment.
- 2003: Titans reach the AFC Championship Game, narrowly losing to the Oakland Raiders.
- 2008: Titans finish with the best record in the NFL (13–3) under head coach Jeff Fisher.
- 2013: Founder Bud Adams passes away; ownership transitions to his heirs.
- 2015: Amy Adams Strunk becomes the controlling owner of the franchise.
- 2019: Titans make an AFC Championship Game run under head coach Mike Vrabel, led by running back Derrick Henry.
- 2021: Titans secure the AFC’s No. 1 seed in the playoffs, their first since 2008.
- 2022: Franchise enters a rebuilding phase after roster changes and departures.
- 2024: Titans finish with a 3–14 record, setting up a major overhaul of leadership and roster.
- 2025: Mike Borgonzi hired as general manager; Titans draft quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, signaling a new era.
Who Owns Tennessee Titans: Top Shareholders
The Tennessee Titans are one of the few NFL franchises that remain fully family-owned. Following the death of founder Bud Adams in 2013, ownership passed to his heirs, ensuring the franchise would stay under Adams family control. While several members share in financial ownership, the NFL requires one person to be recognized as the controlling owner, which is Amy Adams Strunk.
Collectively, the Adams family owns 100% of the Tennessee Titans, making them one of the few NFL teams not shared with outside investors or corporations. This arrangement gives the family complete financial control and stability, while concentrating operational power in Amy Adams Strunk’s hands.
The ownership structure allows for both continuity and clarity: Amy directs leadership and league relations, Susie retains her financial stake without active involvement, and Kenneth represents the family’s younger generation. Together, they uphold Bud Adams’ legacy while guiding the franchise into its next chapter.
Below is a breakdown of the major shareholders of the Titans as of September 2025:
| Shareholder | Ownership % | Role/Title | Involvement & Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amy Adams Strunk | 50% | Controlling Owner | Largest shareholder; recognized by NFL as controlling owner since 2015. Makes final decisions on management, stadium projects, and league matters. Actively leads franchise strategy and community initiatives. |
| Susie Adams Smith | 33% | Minority Owner | Significant financial stakeholder but not involved in daily operations. Prefers a low-profile role. Considered selling in past, but retains ownership. |
| Kenneth S. Adams IV | 17% | Minority Owner | Grandson of Bud Adams; represents next generation of Adams family ownership. Limited involvement in operations but symbolic link to family legacy. |
Amy Adams Strunk – Controlling Owner (50%)
Amy Adams Strunk owns 50% of the Tennessee Titans, making her the largest single shareholder. In 2015, she was appointed as the official controlling owner by the NFL, giving her exclusive authority to represent the franchise in league decisions and meetings.
Her tenure has been transformative for the Titans. Amy oversaw the hiring of General Manager Jon Robinson in 2016, later replaced by Ran Carthon in 2023, and most recently by Mike Borgonzi in 2025.
She also worked closely with Head Coach Mike Vrabel during the team’s resurgence from 2018 to 2022, including an AFC Championship Game appearance. Beyond football, Amy has prioritized community involvement, launching initiatives to strengthen ties between the team and Nashville.
She has also been central to discussions around upgrading or replacing Nissan Stadium with a modern venue, a project that represents one of the largest stadium investments in NFL history.
As of 2025, Amy continues to be the face of the Titans’ ownership. Her decisions carry the most weight, both financially and strategically, making her one of the most influential women in professional sports ownership today.
Susie Adams Smith – Minority Owner (33%)
Susie Adams Smith, Amy’s sister, owns about 33% of the Titans. While her stake is large, her role is very different from Amy’s. Susie has generally preferred to stay out of the spotlight and does not play an active role in day-to-day operations or football decisions.
In past years, there was speculation that Susie might sell her ownership stake. However, due to the NFL’s rules requiring ownership stability and family agreement, the franchise remained intact under the Adams family control. By 2025, Susie continues as a significant financial stakeholder, benefitting from the rising value of the franchise.
Although she does not exert influence over team management, her ownership ensures that the Titans remain within the family legacy established by her father, Bud Adams.
Kenneth S. Adams IV – Minority Owner (17%)
Kenneth S. Adams IV, Bud Adams’ grandson, holds about 17% of the Titans. While his percentage is smaller compared to Amy’s and Susie’s, his ownership is notable because it represents the involvement of the next generation of the Adams family.
Kenneth is not heavily involved in the team’s daily affairs, but he serves as a symbolic link between the franchise’s historic roots and its future. As the youngest of the key shareholders, his presence ensures that the Adams family’s connection to the Titans is not limited to the older generation. His long-term role may expand if the family chooses to involve younger heirs in more active management down the line.
Tennessee Titans Ownership History
The Tennessee Titans’ ownership story is rooted in continuity and family legacy. Unlike many other NFL franchises that have changed hands multiple times, the Titans have remained within the same family since their founding in 1960. This history begins with the vision of Bud Adams, passes through a transitional period after his death, and now rests with his daughter Amy Adams Strunk as the controlling owner.
| Owner / Era | Years Active | Ownership % | Role / Title | Key Details & Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bud Adams | 1960–2013 | 100% | Founder & Owner | Founded the Houston Oilers in 1960 as part of the AFL. Oversaw relocation to Tennessee in 1997 and rebranding as Titans in 1999. Led team to Super Bowl XXXIV. One of the longest-serving NFL owners until his death in 2013. |
| Adams Family Heirs | 2013–2015 | 100% split among heirs | Transitional Ownership | After Bud Adams’ passing, ownership transferred to his daughters Amy Adams Strunk, Susie Adams Smith, and grandson Kenneth S. Adams IV. Period marked by uncertainty until a controlling owner was chosen. |
| Amy Adams Strunk | 2015–Present | 50% (controlling stake) | Controlling Owner | Officially recognized by the NFL in 2015 as controlling owner. Leads franchise strategy, league representation, and stadium development. Oversaw playoff runs, including AFC Championship appearance in 2019. |
| Susie Adams Smith | 2013–Present | 33% | Minority Owner | Daughter of Bud Adams. Holds a significant financial interest but does not participate in daily operations. Considered selling in past but retained her stake. |
| Kenneth S. Adams IV | 2013–Present | 17% | Minority Owner | Grandson of Bud Adams. Holds minority share as part of family inheritance. Represents the younger generation of Adams family ownership with limited operational involvement. |
The Bud Adams Era (1960–2013)
Kenneth Stanley “Bud” Adams Jr. founded the Houston Oilers in 1960 as part of the newly formed American Football League (AFL). A successful businessman in the oil, gas, and real estate industries, Adams was a bold figure in professional football. His Oilers won the first two AFL Championships in 1960 and 1961, establishing the franchise as an immediate contender.
When the AFL merged with the NFL in 1970, Adams’ team became part of the NFL’s modern era. Over the next several decades, the Oilers were home to stars like Earl Campbell and Warren Moon. In 1997, Adams relocated the team to Tennessee, initially calling them the “Tennessee Oilers” before rebranding as the “Tennessee Titans” in 1999. That same year, the Titans reached their first and only Super Bowl appearance under his ownership.
Bud Adams remained the owner until his death in October 2013. His nearly 53-year tenure made him one of the longest-serving owners in professional football history.
The Transition After Bud Adams (2013–2015)
After Bud Adams passed away, ownership transferred to his heirs. This period was marked by questions of leadership and control. The team was inherited by his daughters, Amy Adams Strunk and Susie Adams Smith, along with grandson Kenneth S. Adams IV. Collectively, they held 100% of the franchise.
However, the NFL requires each team to have a single designated controlling owner. During this transitional phase, the league pushed for clarity in leadership. After discussions within the family, Amy Adams Strunk stepped forward to take the lead.
Amy Adams Strunk as Controlling Owner (2015–Present)
In 2015, Amy Adams Strunk was officially recognized by the NFL as the controlling owner of the Tennessee Titans. Since then, she has reshaped the direction of the franchise. Under her leadership, the team has made multiple playoff appearances, returned to AFC Championship contention in 2019, and grown significantly in value.
Amy has also overseen investments in stadium projects and community outreach in Nashville. As of September 2025, she continues to hold a 50% stake with operational control, while her sister Susie Adams Smith and nephew Kenneth Adams IV retain their minority shares.
Her leadership represents a new era of stability for the Titans, balancing the family’s long-standing legacy with modern business practices to keep the franchise competitive both on and off the field.
Amy Adams Strunk Net Worth
As of September 2025, Amy Adams Strunk’s net worth is estimated at $2 billion. This wealth is primarily driven by her controlling 50% stake in the Tennessee Titans, a team now valued at $6.3 billion. Her ownership position alone places her among the wealthiest women in sports, and her net worth continues to grow as franchise valuations rise.
Source of Wealth
Strunk’s fortune comes mainly from her inheritance of Bud Adams’ estate. Bud Adams, a Texas oil magnate and co-founder of the AFL, left his controlling interest in the franchise to his family when he passed in 2013.
While Strunk does not own multiple businesses like some of her NFL peers, her concentrated wealth in the Titans has proven extremely valuable given the league’s massive revenue growth. She also retains indirect ties to her family’s historic oil and gas ventures, though the Titans remain her primary financial driver.
Titans Franchise as Core Asset
The Titans account for nearly all of Strunk’s fortune. When she assumed control in 2015, the franchise was valued at less than $2 billion.
Over the past decade, that value has tripled, reaching $6.3 billion in September 2025. This surge reflects new NFL media deals, revenue sharing, merchandise growth, and the team’s strong local support in Nashville.
Her leadership has also helped push forward plans for a new state-of-the-art stadium, which is expected to add even more value to the franchise.
Comparison with Other NFL Owners
Although Strunk’s personal net worth is around $2 billion, her team’s valuation rivals some of the NFL’s top franchises. By comparison:
- Dallas Cowboys (Jerry Jones): $13+ billion team value
- Los Angeles Rams (Stan Kroenke): $12+ billion
- New England Patriots (Robert Kraft): $11+ billion.
While Amy Adams Strunk does not personally have the same wealth as these mega-owners, the Titans’ place among the NFL’s more valuable teams ensures she remains a powerful figure in league matters. Among women in the NFL ownership ranks, she is one of the most financially prominent.
Philanthropy and Investments
Strunk’s wealth has also enabled her to become a visible philanthropist in Tennessee. She has invested heavily in community programs, disaster recovery funds, and youth sports initiatives.
Her charitable efforts aim to strengthen Nashville’s identity as a football city while giving back to the community that supports the Titans. Though she does not run a large investment empire outside the team, her financial decisions consistently align with boosting both the franchise and the region.
Net Worth Growth Outlook
The Tennessee Titans’ $6.3 billion valuation underscores the rapid appreciation of NFL assets. With global expansion, new broadcasting contracts, and the upcoming Nashville stadium project, the franchise’s value is poised to grow even further. Analysts expect the Titans could be worth over $8 billion within the next decade, which would naturally lift Strunk’s net worth well above $3 billion if current trends continue.
Tennessee Titans Net Worth
As of September 2025, the franchise is valued at $6.3 billion, marking a significant leap from just a decade ago.
The Titans’ valuation places them in the upper half of NFL franchises by value. The growth is driven by new NFL media contracts, enhanced sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and a rising demand for sports entertainment. The planned new stadium in Nashville is also a key factor in boosting the team’s long-term valuation.
Here’s a 10-year historical net worth (franchise valuation) of the Tennessee Titans:
| Year | Estimated Franchise Value | Key Drivers of Valuation |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.6 billion | Early years under Amy Adams Strunk’s control. Stable revenues but limited stadium upgrades. |
| 2016 | $1.8 billion | Team performance improved with new talent; NFL broadcasting deals raised all franchise values. |
| 2017 | $2.0 billion | Playoff appearance increased local revenue and boosted brand recognition. |
| 2018 | $2.2 billion | Strong fan support and continued NFL revenue growth. |
| 2019 | $2.4 billion | AFC Championship run dramatically increased merchandise sales and franchise visibility. |
| 2020 | $2.7 billion | Pandemic slowed game-day revenue, but long-term media deals sustained valuation growth. |
| 2021 | $3.1 billion | Recovery from pandemic; rising TV/streaming contracts pushed values upward. |
| 2022 | $3.7 billion | NFL signed record media rights deals worth over $100 billion. Franchise valuations surged. |
| 2023 | $4.8 billion | Growth fueled by expansion of sponsorships, merchandise, and playoff competitiveness. |
| 2024 | $5.5 billion | New stadium project announced, significantly raising long-term franchise worth. |
| 2025 | $6.3 billion | Current valuation, reflecting strong market growth in Nashville and anticipation of new stadium revenues. |
Revenue Streams
The Titans’ financial strength comes from diverse revenue channels:
- Broadcasting Rights: A share of the NFL’s lucrative TV and streaming deals, which are worth hundreds of billions league-wide.
- Game Day Revenue: Ticket sales, concessions, and parking from home games at Nissan Stadium, with higher future revenue expected from the new stadium project.
- Merchandising & Licensing: Strong merchandise sales fueled by the team’s competitive performances and recognizable players.
- Sponsorships & Partnerships: Corporate sponsorships, including naming rights deals, continue to expand the team’s income base.
Impact of the New Stadium
One of the biggest drivers of the Titans’ financial growth is the planned state-of-the-art stadium in Nashville, expected to open later this decade. The stadium will feature modern amenities, luxury suites, and expanded fan experiences.
It is projected to bring in hundreds of millions in additional annual revenue through naming rights, event hosting (concerts, Super Bowls, NCAA games), and premium seating. Analysts believe this project alone could push the team’s valuation beyond $8 billion in the next decade.
Market Position in the NFL
The Tennessee Titans, valued at $6.3 billion in 2025, sit in the upper half of NFL franchises in terms of valuation. While not the single most valuable team, their rapid financial growth highlights how the franchise has outperformed many other mid-market teams over the past decade.
The league’s wealthiest teams remain those with massive national followings and large-market advantages:
- Dallas Cowboys – valued at over $13 billion, consistently the most valuable sports franchise in the world.
- Los Angeles Rams – around $12 billion, bolstered by their new SoFi Stadium and the Los Angeles market.
- New England Patriots – approximately $11 billion, benefiting from decades of dominance and a strong global fan base.
- San Francisco 49ers – close to $10.5 billion, driven by Silicon Valley wealth and Levi’s Stadium revenues.
In comparison, the Titans’ $6.3 billion valuation is lower, but still significant given Nashville’s mid-sized market.
When compared to other mid-market teams, the Titans’ valuation stands out:
- Cincinnati Bengals – around $4.5 billion, despite recent success led by quarterback Joe Burrow.
- Jacksonville Jaguars – approximately $4.2 billion, with strong ownership but a smaller fan base.
- Buffalo Bills – valued at about $5.6 billion, lifted by consistent playoff appearances and passionate local support.
The Titans’ combination of a growing Nashville market, consistent playoff relevance, and a new stadium project has put them financially ahead of most franchises of similar size.
Brand Value and Community Impact
The Titans’ value is not just financial—it also reflects brand strength. The team has become a cornerstone of Tennessee’s sports identity. Community engagement, charitable programs, and strong fan loyalty all add intangible value. The franchise’s consistent playoff appearances in recent years have boosted its profile nationally, further raising merchandise and sponsorship revenues.
Looking forward, the Titans are well-positioned to climb further up the rankings. The new Nashville stadium project is expected to elevate the team into the NFL’s top 10 most valuable franchises within the next decade. While they may never reach Cowboys-level dominance, the Titans could soon surpass several historic franchises in valuation as Tennessee’s economy and population continue to grow.
Tennessee Titans Leadership
The Tennessee Titans’ leadership structure combines ownership influence, executive management, and football operations. While Amy Adams Strunk remains the controlling force, day-to-day management is guided by a mix of experienced executives and football strategists. This balance ensures the franchise thrives both on and off the field.
Controlling Owner: Amy Adams Strunk
Amy Adams Strunk has been the controlling owner of the Titans since 2015. She is responsible for setting the long-term vision of the franchise and representing the team in NFL league meetings. Strunk has been instrumental in strengthening ties between the Titans and the Nashville community.
She also spearheaded the push for the new Nashville stadium, a multi-billion-dollar project that is set to define the team’s future.
President and CEO: Burke Nihill
Burke Nihill has served as the Titans’ President and Chief Executive Officer since 2020. His responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the team’s business operations, stadium development, and organizational strategy.
The Titans have expanded their brand presence, improved fan engagement, and progressed toward securing Nashville’s new stadium deal under his leadership. Nihill is widely respected within the NFL for his expertise in business development and organizational growth.
General Manager: Ran Carthon
Ran Carthon took over as General Manager in 2023. He leads the team’s roster building, player acquisitions, and overall football strategy. Carthon, a former player personnel executive with the San Francisco 49ers, has emphasized scouting, analytics, and long-term player development.
His vision is focused on building a sustainable championship contender through a mix of strong draft picks and strategic free-agent signings.
Head Coach: Brian Callahan
In early 2024, Brian Callahan was named the Titans’ head coach, replacing Mike Vrabel. Callahan, formerly the offensive coordinator of the Cincinnati Bengals, brings an offensive-minded approach aimed at revitalizing the Titans’ offense.
He works closely with Ran Carthon to align roster moves with the team’s on-field strategy. His hiring marked a new era for the Titans, with a focus on modern, dynamic offensive play.
Executive Vice President & Leadership Team
Supporting the core leadership are several vice presidents and senior executives who manage different aspects of the franchise:
- Adolpho Birch III (Senior Vice President, Business Affairs & Chief Legal Officer): Oversees legal, community, and government relations.
- Gil Beverly (Chief Marketing & Revenue Officer): Leads sponsorships, fan engagement, and media partnerships.
- Janine Kauffman (Vice President, Operations): Manages stadium operations, logistics, and event hosting.
Decision-Making Structure
The Titans’ decision-making process is a collaboration between ownership, executives, and football leadership. Amy Adams Strunk sets the overall direction, while Burke Nihill ensures smooth execution on the business side. Ran Carthon and Brian Callahan drive football-related decisions, while senior VPs ensure operational efficiency.
This structure allows the Titans to remain competitive on the field while maximizing financial and brand growth.
Beyond football, the Titans place a strong emphasis on their role in the Nashville community. Under Strunk’s guidance, leadership has increased investments in charitable causes, youth programs, and local partnerships.
This community-driven focus has boosted the team’s reputation and fan loyalty, further supporting its financial success.
Final Words
The story of the Tennessee Titans’ ownership is a rare tale of legacy in professional sports. From Bud Adams’ bold move to create the Houston Oilers and later bring the franchise to Tennessee, to Amy Adams Strunk stepping in as controlling owner, the Titans have remained firmly in the Adams family for more than six decades. This continuity has provided stability while allowing new leadership to modernize and expand the franchise. As the Titans continue to grow in value and prestige, their ownership remains a powerful reminder that some NFL franchises are more than business—they are family legacies deeply tied to tradition, vision, and community.
FAQs
Who currently owns the Tennessee Titans?
The Tennessee Titans are owned by the Adams family, with Amy Adams Strunk serving as the controlling owner since 2015. She holds a 50% controlling interest, while her sister Susie Adams Smith owns 33%, and her nephew Kenneth S. Adams IV owns 17%. Strunk is recognized by the NFL as the official representative and decision-maker for the franchise.
Who is the husband of Amy Adams Strunk?
Amy Adams Strunk was married to Bill Strunk, but they later divorced. As of 2025, she is not currently remarried and lives primarily in Waller, Texas, while also spending significant time in Nashville due to her role with the Titans.
Who is the daughter of Amy Adams Strunk?
Amy Adams Strunk has two children, one of whom is her daughter, Katherine Strunk. She prefers to keep her family life private, and her children do not play a public role in the operations of the Titans.
What is the origin of the name of the Tennessee Titans?
The franchise was originally founded as the Houston Oilers in 1960 by Bud Adams. When the team relocated to Tennessee in 1997, it was initially called the Tennessee Oilers for two seasons. In 1999, the team officially rebranded as the Tennessee Titans. The name “Titans” was chosen because it symbolizes strength, leadership, and heroes of great stature—qualities that the organization wanted to embody. Nashville, nicknamed the “Athens of the South,” also has strong ties to classical Greek themes, making “Titans” a fitting choice.
How many children does Amy Adams Strunk have?
Amy Adams Strunk has two children, a son and a daughter. Neither of them is directly involved in the Tennessee Titans’ management.
Is Amy Adams Strunk a billionaire?
Yes, Amy Adams Strunk is a billionaire. As of September 2025, her net worth is estimated at $2 billion. This wealth comes primarily from her controlling 50% stake in the Tennessee Titans, now valued at $6.3 billion.
How did Amy Adams Strunk make her money?
Amy Adams Strunk inherited her wealth from her father, Bud Adams, who made his fortune in oil and co-founded the American Football League (AFL). When Bud Adams passed away in 2013, his ownership of the Titans was split among his heirs. Amy became the recognized controlling owner in 2015, and the team’s soaring valuation has since solidified her billionaire status.
How much did Bud Adams buy the Titans for?
Bud Adams originally founded the franchise as the Houston Oilers in 1960. The buy-in cost for an AFL franchise at the time was $25,000, a fraction of the billions the team is worth today. This makes the Titans one of the greatest appreciation stories in professional sports history.
Who owns Nissan Stadium?
Nissan Stadium is owned by the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. The Titans operate under a lease agreement with the city, which allows them to play home games there. A new stadium project is currently underway, with plans for the Titans to move into a modern domed facility later this decade.