As the wrecking ball looms, Jeffery Simmons and teammates reflect on a "bittersweet" farewell tour defined by iconic memories and a drive to exit on a high note.
Like it or not, the Tennessee Titans will be playing their last season at the old Nissan Stadium in 2026.
The new version has continued to be built right next door, and the franchise is trying to get it completed in February of 2027 so that the team can be ready to use it next season.
Fans can still buy parts of the old stadium, but they can't replace the memories made there. Before the name change, there was the infamous "Music City Miracle" there and many other great plays over the years.
The players have had great times at Nissan Stadium too.
Multiple Titans players expressed their feelings about this being their last season at the venue in the locker room on Wednesday.
Jeffery Simmons mentioned how much it's been on his mind lately. He looked back at starting his career with the Titans in 2018 and was reflective on his career.
"I got drafted here in 2018, and it's one of them things to where you just reflect, and it was crazy," Simmons said. "I was just at home the other day talking to my family and whatnot, and I realized that this Sunday will be my 100th game in the NFL as well. So, it's like when you think about all them emotions and you think about the last couple of years being in Tennessee, it's been unbelievable. I'm excited, you know? It's one of them, like homecoming, homegoing, whatever, however you wanna call it. Our first time being in Nissan Stadium to open up a season opener in this stadium. It's bittersweet."
Peter Skoronski hasn't been with the Titans as long as Simmons, but the memories are still there. His memories haven't all been positive, as the Titans have struggled since he was drafted.
Skoronski wants to leave the old stadium on a high note at the end of the season.
"It's just being honest, there's not a ton of high notes, honestly," Skoronski said. "I think we all know the record there, but we want to finish strong. It's still a great venue. I love playing there. I love being at home. Even with some down days, we've always had fans turn out and make noise. So, want to finish on a high note in terms of the season and start off strong with that last run here."
It's going to be an emotional season as we creep closer to the final game at Nissan Stadium. The last game will be against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Jan. 3, 2027.
Even through all the bad years, the fans have always shown up and supported the team.
