Will the Tennessee Titans pursue DE Dwight Freeney?
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The scene in Indianapolis has taken a turn of bizarre this past week. On Wednesday, the expected release of future hall of fame QB Peyton Manning was the biggest eye popper in the headlines and overshadowed what happened days after. The Colts then released TE Dallas Clark, RB Joseph Addai, LB Gary Brackett, S Melvin Bullitt and backup QB Curtis Painter this past Friday. In addition to the release of these five players the Colts then annoucned that pro bowl DE Dwight Freeney is on the market. It is an almost certainty that Indy’s reign in the AFC South is over for now. The division now belongs to two teams: the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans.
The Titans are in desperate need of a complement to DE Derrick Morgan. DE Jason Jones may not be back with the Titans and was better suited as a DT. DE David Ball may not be back either and isn’t an elite pass rusher. Injuries are also a concern with the veteran. DE William Hayes is also up for free agency but is a backup at best. If Jason Jones, William Hayes and Dave Ball leave via free agency the Titans will have only one noteable DE on the roster in Derrick Morgan. Enter Dwight Freeney.
The Colts have announced that Dwight Freeney is on the market but the asking price is still up in the air at this point. 2012 is Freeney’s last year of a 6 year deal and the cap hit will be around $20 million. If the Colts are to trade him they will more than likely have to rework his deal to bring that cap hit down. But will it be enough of a rework for the Titans to take notice? A trade for Freeney would no doubt upgrade Tennessee’s defensive line immeadiately. However, Freeney’s age and Indy’s willingness to trade within the division are two things that could keep Tennessee from being a big player in acquiring his services. The Titans should at least consider the possiblily of landing a pass rusher like Dwight Freeney.
Dwight Freeney’s Career Statistics
Tackles: 286
Sacks: 102.5
Forced Fumbles: 43
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