John Zernhelt enters his first season with the Titans and second NFL season. A 30-year veteran of coaching, Zernhelt joins the Titans after one season as tight ends coach with the New York Jets.

Prior to joining the NFL, Zernhelt spent 28 seasons in the college ranks, including one year as head coach at the Citadel in 2004. He served as offensive coordinator in 2003 at the Citadel, before rising to head coach.

Zernhelt spent four seasons as offensive coordinator/offensive line coach at James Madison. His offense helped RB Curtis Keaton set numerous school records and earn Atlantic 10 Offensive Player of the Year honors in 1999. Before joining James Madison, he made stops as an offensive line coach at South Carolina (1996-98), Duke (1994-95), Rice (1992-93), Maryland (1987-91), East Carolina (1982-86), Marshall (1981) and Ferrum College (1977-80). At both Rice and Duke, Zernhelt worked with former Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger.

A graduate of Maryland, Zernhelt enjoyed a stellar player career for the Terrapins as an offensive lineman, earning three ACC championships and playing in the Liberty, Gator and Cotton bowls during his career. He was recognized for his achievements in October of 2002 by his induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame for the Allen-Rogowicz Chapter.

A native of Newtown, Penn. Zernhelt (1/4/54) and his wife Katie have one son John Paul (17).