1. Dion Lewis, RB
Let’s begin with a check in the popular column. Running back Dion Lewis has been one of Jon Robinson’s worst free-agent acquisitions, and it wouldn’t be close if it weren’t for left guard Rodger Saffold’s level of play through eight weeks.
In March of 2018, Lewis inked a four-year, $19.8 million deal with $5.75 million guaranteed. What a steal. Let’s put his deal in perspective. Lewis is wedged between Houston Texans RB Lamar Miller (No. 9) and Carolina Panthers RB Christian McCaffery (No. 11) with the 10th-highest valued contract for a running back in the NFL.
This list is ever-changing, and it’s worth noting that McCaffery is still on his rookie deal, but in no world is Lewis worth top-10 money. Especially with the value of running backs on the decline, the Titans should take another swing on a mid-round running back in the 2020 NFL Draft to replace Lewis.
The good news for Titans fans is that the team has a legitimate out. After this season — assuming Lewis is cut — the Titans will move on carrying only $1.1 million in dead cap. In turn, his deal becomes something that Robinson can live with (2yrs/$10.3 million).
A failed venture, but one that had significant upside.