4 sneaky good NFL free agents Titans need to sign

We gotta get these guys, Tennessee!

As the Tennessee Titans head into another NFL offseason, fans eagerly await the team’s strategic moves. Despite a promising start with six victories in their first eleven games, the Titans stumbled to a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2023. They fell short of postseason aspirations once more. In this analysis, we delve into four potential free agents whose signings could inject new life into the Titans’ lineup and reignite their quest for championship contention.

The Titans’ 2023 Season

The 2023 NFL season marked the Tennessee Titans’ final campaign under head coach Mike Vrabel’s leadership. Hoping to surpass their underwhelming 7–10 record from the previous year and secure a playoff berth after a hiatus since 2018, the Titans faced many challenges. However, a critical loss to the Houston Texans in Week 15 dashed their playoff hopes for the second consecutive year. A Week 16 defeat to the Seattle Seahawks also sealed their last-place finish in the AFC South. Not surprisingly, the Titans parted ways with Vrabel in mid-January. He was replaced by Brian Callahan.

The Titans’ 2024 Free Agency

The Titans are poised to wield substantial financial flexibility in 2024. However, their approach to free agency emphasizes prudence over extravagance, as outlined by the newly-appointed President of Football Operations, Chad Brinker.

He likened unrestricted free agents to premium products, where the cost reflects the assurance of quality and reliability. Conversely, he equated draft picks to wholesale purchases, emphasizing their potential for value and profitability. This is especially true in securing talent at key positions through astute scouting and development.

Regarding cap casualties, Brinker drew parallels to shopping at big box stores. This meant highlighting the opportunity to obtain high-quality assets at a favorable value. Cap casualties present an unpredictable facet of free agency, with uncertain timing and player availability.

Here we will look at the four sneaky good NFL free agents whom the Tennessee Titans need to sign during the 2024 offseason.

Tyler Boyd, WR

Tyler Boyd offers a reliable slot receiver option for incumbent QB Will Levis. The Titans could benefit from adding a receiver who excels in short-yardage situations. This could provide Levis with easier completions rather than constantly aiming for big plays. Notably, Boyd also shares a strong rapport with Brian Callahan, the former offensive coordinator in Cincinnati. This makes his potential acquisition a logical choice based on familiarity alone.

Throughout his eight-year career, Boyd has showcased remarkable consistency. He has recorded fewer than 600 receiving yards in just one season. Despite a slightly diminished production last year with 667 yards and two touchdowns, Boyd remains a dependable option. This is especially true considering the challenges faced by the Bengals at quarterback. At 29, he still offers several seasons of solid play ahead.

Yes, Boyd isn’t known for stretching the field with explosive plays. That said, his proficiency in moving the chains and maintaining a high floor makes him a valuable addition. This is particularly true for teams seeking reliability over pure upside. Even amidst the Titans’ need for dynamic playmakers, Boyd’s effectiveness in intermediate routes fills a crucial role. This emphasizes the necessity for talent across the spectrum of play styles.

Reuniting Boyd with a familiar coach not only aids Levis’s development but also upgrades the overall receiving unit. As the Titans prioritize their free agency targets, Boyd should rank high on GM Ran Carthon’s list.

Marquise Brown, WR

Another wideout target is Marquise Brown. In contrast to DeAndre Hopkins’ prowess in contested catches and Treylon Burks’ physicality, Marquise Brown offers a distinct skill set that could rejuvenate the Titans’ passing game. Brown represents a long-term investment in Tennessee’s receiving corps.

AJ Dillon, RB

Drawing comparisons to Derrick Henry for his imposing size, AJ Dillon has proven to be a valuable complement to Aaron Jones in Green Bay. Sure, Dillon hasn’t entirely lived up to the Henry comparisons. However, he boasts an impressive PFF rushing grade and a solid career record. At 25, Dillon presents a promising option for the Titans, potentially forming an exciting running back duo alongside Tyjae Spears.

Ahkello Witherspoon, CB

Ahkello Witherspoon’s resurgence with the Rams underscores the impact of under-the-radar signings. Despite initial doubts about his playing future following a challenging 2022 season, Witherspoon has emerged as a key contributor. He showcased his ability to limit opposing passers effectively. Witherspoon offers versatility as a bigger cornerback suited for zone-heavy schemes.

With the Titans seeking cornerback reinforcements, Witherspoon’s skill set aligns well with their defensive strategies. This is particularly true in replacing departing players like Sean Murphy-Bunting and Kristian Fulton.

Looking Ahead

In the pursuit of revitalizing the Tennessee Titans roster, the potential signings of Tyler Boyd, Marquise Brown, AJ Dillon, and Ahkello Witherspoon loom large. These players not only bring diverse skill sets and experiences. They also offer the promise of fortifying the team’s competitive edge in the upcoming season. As the Titans navigate the intricate landscape of free agency, strategic acquisitions tailored to specific needs become paramount. Whether it’s bolstering the receiving corps, solidifying the running game, or shoring up the defensive backfield, each addition holds the potential to reshape the Titans’ trajectory. With careful consideration and calculated moves, the Titans can transform challenges into opportunities in 2024.