Tennessee Titans: Signing guard Kevin Pamphile was an underrated move
By Kyle Zwiazek
In one of the most under the radar moves of the off-season, the Tennessee Titans signed former Bucs guard Kevin Pamphile.
Offensive linemen do not typically get the top headlines, but they can be one of the more important pieces to a team’s puzzle. The Tennessee Titans brain trust realized the importance of beefing up the offensive line and brought in guard Kevin Pamphile. Pamphile is not a flashy player, but his grit will be necessary to improving an already formidable group of blockers.
After starting 15 of 16 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season, Pamphile was allowed to test the market as a free agent. In all likelihood, Pamphile will not be a starter with the Titans because the whole offensive line is coming back next season. Pamphile would have to outplay incumbents Josh Kline and Quinton Spain. The goal is for Pamphile to be an insurance policy if one of the two starting guards get injured.
One of the big issues for teams in the NFL to navigate throughout a season is injuries, and Pamphile will be a great asset in case there is one. Pamphile can also be used as an added player on the offensive line. He can be the sixth blocker instead of a tight end, a role that Dennis Kelly has played in and done well in. This will help in both passing and running situations. If Pamphile can help open up holes for the running game, Derrick Henry will have a better season, and Dion Lewis will continue his success from 2017. Also, he can help in play action situations to protect Marcus Mariota.
Contract
This move was additionally great because it did not cost the Titans too much money. According to spotrac, Pamphile has a one-year deal worth a total of $1.4 million. It has $1 million in guaranteed money for the season. This is the kind of undervalued contract that helps teams take the next step. It is not the most flashy move, but Pamphile is a decent blocker that has a nose for defenders. He is also versatile and has the chance to play any position on the offensive line. If there is an injury, it is very possible that Pamphile will be able to step in at any position on the line. This is a great move by Jon Robinson and might end up being the most undervalued move of the off-season for the Titans.