The Tennessee Titans have taken a different approach to free agency this year, focusing on building a solid roster rather than going all-in for immediate success. Despite coming off consecutive losing seasons, the Titans have made strategic moves to address their needs. Trading for cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and signing free agents Calvin Ridley, Lloyd Cushenberry, and Chidobe Awuzie show that the team is aiming to improve rather than make a championship run.
One area where the Titans need significant improvement is at left tackle. The past two seasons have been a struggle with Andre Dillard and Dennis Daley failing to fill the shoes of Taylor Lewan. This has resulted in numerous quarterback hits and lost jobs within the organization. In the upcoming NFL Draft, the Titans are expected to use their No. 7 pick to find their next long-term quarterback protector. Notre Dame’s Joe Alt is a top prospect for this position, but there are other options available. If the Titans don’t find an immediate starter in the draft, they can turn to Nicholas Petit-Frere as the best option among returnees.
Another position of concern for the Titans is right tackle. With a deep pool of talent in this year’s draft, the Titans could potentially select two tackles in the first and second rounds. This would solidify their offensive line for the foreseeable future. Offensive line coach Bill Callahan’s expertise will be invaluable in evaluating these prospects. With Cushenberry already locked in at center and last year’s first-round pick, Peter Skoronski, at left guard, adding two talented tackles would give the Titans a promising offensive line.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Titans need help at edge rusher. Harold Landry and Jeffery Simmons are formidable forces, but they lost Denico Autry to the Houston Texans. The Titans require an edge rusher who can take pressure off Landry and contribute on a rookie contract. This will allow the team to allocate their resources elsewhere, addressing other needs on the roster.
Inside linebacker is another position that needs attention. Last offseason, David Long Jr. left for Miami, and the Titans replaced him with Azeez Al-Shaair. However, the departure of Al-Shaair to Houston means the Titans are once again in search of a starter. Free agent Kenneth Murray Jr. has the athletic traits to make an impact, but the Titans would benefit from selecting an effective draft choice who can grow into Dennard Wilson’s defensive scheme.
Looking back at recent drafts, the Titans have had mixed success with their top picks. In 2023, they selected offensive guard Peter Skoronski at No. 11. Skoronski faced challenges in his rookie season, including an appendix removal and a lack of support from the left tackle position. However, if the Titans can address their tackle positions and upgrade at center, Skoronski has the potential for a breakout season.
Wide receiver Treylon Burks was selected in 2022 at No. 18. The Titans have been uncertain about Burks’ role each year, from comparing him to AJ Brown to questioning his ability to be a difference-maker. With a new coaching staff in place, Burks has an opportunity to prove himself and secure a spot in the playing rotation.
In 2021, the Titans took a risk on cornerback Caleb Farley at No. 22 despite concerns about his medical history. Farley has faced injuries and personal tragedy but is determined to make a comeback this offseason. This is a critical year for Farley as he enters the final year of his rookie deal.
The 2020 draft was marred by the failure of offensive tackle Isaiah Wilson at No. 29. Off-the-field issues derailed his career before it even began, leaving the Titans searching for a reliable right tackle. They have since drafted Dillon Radunz in the second round in 2021 and Petit-Frere in the third round in 2022 to fill the position.
In 2019, the Titans had one of their best drafts ever. Defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, wide receiver AJ Brown, offensive lineman Nate Davis, safety Amani Hooker, and linebacker David Long Jr. were all selected. With Derrick Henry now gone, Simmons is undoubtedly the best player on the team, and the focus is on supporting Levis and determining if he’s the long-term quarterback.
Overall, the Titans have made strategic moves in free agency and have key positions to address in the upcoming NFL Draft. By shoring up their offensive line, adding depth at edge rusher and inside linebacker, and getting their top picks to perform at a high level, the Titans have a chance to turn their fortunes around and make a push for the postseason. The long-term rebuild is a thing of the past, and the Titans are focused on building a competitive team around their new quarterback, Will Levis.