What tasks remain on the Tennessee Titans’ agenda for free agency?
With less than six weeks remaining until the 2024 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans’ activity in free agency has notably slowed down. Initially, the focus was on addressing ten key needs for the team, with the expectation of securing premium players for at least one or ideally two positions before the draft.
So far, Ran Carthon, the team’s decision-maker, has made significant progress in meeting these objectives. Notable signings include Lloyd Cushenberry at center, Kenneth Murray at linebacker, Chidobe Awuzie at cornerback, and Calvin Ridley as a wide receiver, with Ridley filling both the WR2 and playmaker roles.
However, despite these achievements, there are still crucial gaps to fill, particularly at left tackle, right tackle, defensive tackle (specifically a 1-tech), cornerback 2, and safety positions. While the free agent market remains open, it appears that the Titans haven’t found ideal matches for these remaining needs yet.
Regarding the offensive line, it’s anticipated that the Titans will address the left tackle position in the upcoming draft. There’s a possibility they’ll add a free agent tackle for depth, considering options like Dillon Radunz and Nicholas Petit-Frere for the starting right tackle spot.
As for the defensive side, needs at defensive tackle, safety, and another boundary cornerback remain. The Titans have shown interest in safeties Marcus Maye and Justin Simmons, possibly waiting for prices to drop before making a move.
With two significant needs still unaddressed, the Titans might focus their second-round draft pick on the best available cornerback or defensive lineman, hoping for a rookie starter. However, this approach comes with risks, and Carthon will need to be strategic in navigating the draft.
In the coming weeks, Carthon will face the challenge of finding solutions to these remaining roster gaps. Options could include trades for players like L’Jarius Sneed or signing veteran cornerbacks like Stephon Gilmore, Rock Ya-Sin, or Steven Nelson to bridge the gap until a developmental draft pick emerges.
While there’s still time to address these needs, the Titans must remain proactive to ensure a successful offseason, as the current state of affairs suggests a promising start but an incomplete process.
