Tennessee Titans’ Offseason Blueprint: Addressing Key Needs Before Free Agency
With the official start of free agency just a week away, the Tennessee Titans are gearing up for one of the most crucial offseasons in recent franchise history. After a disappointing 3-14 season, new head coach Brian Callahan and general manager Mike Borgonzi have been vocal about the team’s need for improvement across multiple positions.
From revamping the offensive line to bolstering the pass rush, the Titans have several pressing issues to address if they hope to become a contender in the AFC South. In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll break down their top priorities and potential targets in free agency and the draft.
1. Offensive Line: The Foundation of Success
One of the biggest weaknesses for the Titans last season was the offensive line. The unit struggled to protect the quarterback and open running lanes, ranking among the worst in the league in sacks allowed and rushing efficiency.
Key Issues:
- Lack of consistency at tackle, especially on the left side
- Poor interior protection
- Limited depth behind starters
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Tyron Smith (Dallas Cowboys): A veteran presence who, despite injury concerns, can provide stability at left tackle.
- Jonah Williams (Cincinnati Bengals): Has experience at both left and right tackle, making him a versatile option.
- Connor Williams (Miami Dolphins): A strong interior lineman who can help solidify the center or guard position.
Draft Targets:
- Joe Alt (Notre Dame): A franchise left tackle prospect who could protect the quarterback for years to come.
- Olu Fashanu (Penn State): Another strong tackle option if the Titans prioritize the O-line early in the draft.
2. Wide Receiver: Providing Weapons for the Passing Game
The Titans’ passing attack was one of the worst in the league, largely due to a lack of reliable receivers. While DeAndre Hopkins remains a threat, the team lacks a true No. 2 option and needs more depth at the position.
Key Issues:
- Lack of speed and separation from receivers
- Inconsistent hands and route running
- Limited depth behind Hopkins
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Calvin Ridley (Jacksonville Jaguars): A proven playmaker who can stretch the field.
- Gabe Davis (Buffalo Bills): A deep-threat receiver who could complement Hopkins.
- Tyler Boyd (Cincinnati Bengals): A dependable slot receiver who could help on short and intermediate routes.
Draft Targets:
- Malik Nabers (LSU): A dynamic playmaker with elite speed and hands.
- Rome Odunze (Washington): A physical receiver with excellent contested-catch ability.
3. Defensive Line and Pass Rush: Disrupting Opposing Offenses
The Titans’ defense lacked a dominant pass rush, finishing the season without a single player reaching double-digit sacks. While Jeffrey Simmons remains a force on the interior, the team needs an explosive edge rusher to complement him.
Key Issues:
- Lack of pressure from the edge
- No consistent double-digit sack producer
- Need for depth at defensive tackle
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Danielle Hunter (Minnesota Vikings): A proven pass rusher who could be an immediate impact player.
- Josh Uche (New England Patriots): A younger, developing edge rusher with high upside.
- Bryce Huff (New York Jets): A situational pass rusher who could thrive with more playing time.
Draft Targets:
- Dallas Turner (Alabama): An elite edge rusher who could be a game-changer.
- Jared Verse (Florida State): A powerful pass rusher with great technique.
4. Inside Linebacker: Strengthening the Middle of the Defense
The Titans have struggled at linebacker since losing key veterans in previous seasons. They need a dependable player to pair with Kenneth Murray and improve their run defense and coverage ability.
Key Issues:
- Inconsistent tackling and run-stopping ability
- Poor coverage against tight ends and running backs
- Need for leadership in the linebacker room
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Patrick Queen (Baltimore Ravens): A fast and physical linebacker with great instincts.
- Devin White (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): A high-upside player who could benefit from a fresh start.
- Josey Jewell (Denver Broncos): A solid all-around linebacker with leadership skills.
Draft Targets:
- Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (Clemson): A strong tackler with great vision.
- Edgerrin Cooper (Texas A&M): A versatile linebacker who excels in coverage.
5. Quarterback: Evaluating the Future
Will Levis showed flashes of potential last season, but the Titans may still consider adding a veteran or drafting another quarterback if they aren’t convinced he’s the long-term answer.
Key Issues:
- Inconsistent performances from Levis
- Lack of a solid backup quarterback
- Uncertainty about the future at the position
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): A reliable veteran backup who could mentor Levis.
- Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): A high-energy player with starting experience.
Draft Targets:
- Jayden Daniels (LSU): A dual-threat quarterback with big-play ability.
- Michael Penix Jr. (Washington): A strong-armed passer who could develop into a starter.
Final Thoughts: Titans’ Game Plan for Free Agency and the Draft
With free agency just a week away, the Titans’ front office will need to act quickly to fill these critical gaps. Their approach will likely be a combination of targeting key free agents and selecting impact players in the draft.
Key Priorities Before Free Agency:
✅ Address offensive line protection issues
✅ Find a true No. 2 wide receiver
✅ Improve the pass rush with a dominant edge rusher
✅ Add depth at linebacker and defensive tackle
✅ Evaluate the quarterback situation
If the Titans can effectively address these issues, they’ll put themselves in a much better position to compete in the AFC South and potentially make a playoff push.
