From Hentrich to Kern, and now Townsend, discover how the Titans continue their tradition of elite punters, building on a rich legacy.
Dating back to the early days of the Tennessee Titans, a good punter has been something fans have become accustomed to.
In the beginning there was Craig Hentrich.
He joined the franchise in 1998, just before it changed its name from the Tennessee Oilers to the Tennessee Titans.
Hentrich was a two-time Pro Bowler and held down the position until 2009. Hentrich was a tough act to follow, but Brett Kern stepped in.
Kern joined the Titans in 2009 but didn't become the team's full-time punter until 2010. He outdid Hentrich, making three Pro Bowls.
His punt to pin the New England Patriots offense deep in their own territory had a bigger impact on that 20-13 playoff win during the 2019 season than people realize.
Former Titans defensive coordinator Dean Pees once called Kern the defensive MVP, and for good reason.
Once Kern left, Ryan Stonehouse had some big shoes to fill. He showcased his rocket of a leg during his short stint with the Titans. That first year with Stonehouse was incredible.
It's a shame that his time was cut short due to the leg injury he suffered in the 2023 season. He played a full season in 2024, but then the Titans moved on from him.
Fans were even blessed to get one season of Johnny Hekker in 2025. Hekker is one of the most storied punters in NFL history, making four Pro Bowls during his time with the Los Angeles Rams.
Now, the Titans are entering a new era of punting with Tommy Townsend. Townsend was one of the many free agent acquisitions by the Titans that went under the radar, but after what Special Teams Coordinator John Fassel said, he is a perfect match.
"As much as I obviously love [Johnny] Hekker and I've spent nine years with him in the NFL, I'm equally excited to see Tommy [Townsend] and see what he can do," Fassel said. "So far, learning about him, he feels like he's Joey Slye, and he feels like he's Morgan Cox. Three special teams' gym rats that love punting, that love kicking. They love sitting in kickoff meetings, which doesn't apply to him. So, he'll fit in perfectly. Not just ability-wise but just loving football and gym rat-wise."
Townsend comes to the Titans after spending time with the Kansas City Chiefs (2020-23) and Houston Texans (2024-25). He made the Pro Bowl in 2022 with the Chiefs.
His longest punt last season was 73 yards, so I think he'll do just fine in the Music City. That's two yards shy of Stonehouse's longest punt with the Titans.
When everyone thinks about the Titans and the great position groups they've had, running back definitely comes to mind first.
Earl Campbell, Eddie George, Chris Johnson and Derrick Henry are proof of that. Punters are important to this franchise, too.
Townsend was a great addition that will enhance the legacy punters have had in the Music City.