The Tennessee Titans are entering the offseason with a secondary need at off-ball linebacker. They began the 2024 season with Kenneth Murray and Ernest Jones IV as starters at the position. Jones was dealt to the Seattle Seahawks at the trade deadline, and Murray projects as a potential cap casualty this offseason.
There are no clear in-house solutions for new general manager Mike Borgonzi. The Titans spent two 2024 draft picks on linebackers, but both Cedric Gray and James Williams rarely got on the field defensively. They also have Jack Gibbens and Chance Campbell recovering from season-ending injuries.
Borgonzi and his front-office staff possess several ties to pending free-agent linebackers. The Titans don't plan on spending big in free agency, but linebacker is the type of non-premium position where value can be found. We've identified three potential targets.
Nick Bolton, Kansas City Chiefs
If the Titans splurge at linebacker, it'll almost certainly be on Nick Bolton, one of the top pending free agents at the position. After enduring an injury-riddled 203, Bolton bounced back in 2024. The former Missouri standout recorded 106 tackles while playing out his rookie contract.
Borgonzi was part of Kansas City's regime that drafted Bolton in the second round of the 2021 draft. Bolton is well-positioned to sign a multi-year contract that exceeds $10 million annually. Nashville is a natural landing spot given Borgonzi's presence.
Robert Spillane, Las Vegas Raiders
Robert Spillane actually began his career with the Titans as an undrafted free agent in 2018. Unfortunately, the Titans didn't see his value then, releasing him during final roster cuts. Spillane has since carved out a successful NFL career for himself.
After a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, new Titans assistant general manager Dave Ziegler signed Spillane to a two-year contract when he was general manager of the Las Vegas Raiders. Spillane recorded a career-high 158 tackles this past season. He's limited in coverage, but Ziegler could recommend his leadership and experience.
Isaiah McDuffie, Green Bay Packers
Isaiah McDuffie played 728 snaps for the Green Bay Packers in 2024, second-most among their off-ball linebackers. McDuffie can shed blocks, fill gaps, and run sideline-to-sideline. He's also been a core special teamer throughout his career.
McDuffie does struggle in coverage, having allowed a completion rate of 85% last season when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus. McDuffie would be a depth signing. Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker was with the Packers when he was drafted.