The Tennessee Titans entered the offseason without a reserve offensive tackle under contract. Dan Moore Jr. and JC Latham will be the starting offensive tackles in 2026, just like they were in 2025. Swing backup Oli Udoh was on an expiring contract, and the Titans have not re-signed him.
The Titans made a move earlier this week that seemingly replaces Udoh. General manager Mike Borgonzi agreed to terms with former Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Austin Deculus on a one-year contract, according to multiple reports. The veteran Deculus immediately projects as the backup to both Moore and Latham.
Deculus struggled mightily for the Chargers throughout 2025. Following his signing, we reached out to Chargers expert Jason Reed to discuss what the Titans should expect from the swing tackle. Reed's response did not inspire much confidence.
Chargers expert: Titans fans shouldn't expect much from OT Austin Deculus
"Even at their most desperate times, Austin Deculus still couldn't help the LA Chargers," Reed said. "In fact, Deculus was one of the main problems as his play legitimately put Justin Herbert in danger. Deculus could have marginal value as a swing tackle in the right scheme that matches his strengths, but even that is a generous interpretation that doesn't elicit much confidence."
The Chargers suffered injuries to both starting offensive tackles in 2025, Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. Deculus was called into action as a result. It was a predictable disaster.
Pro Football Focus credited Deculus with a lackluster grade of 33.1 in pass protection, finishing 89th among 90 qualifying tackles. His overall score of 36.5 wasn't much better. Deculus earned 476 snaps at left tackle and was credited with allowing seven sacks and 37 pressures. He was whistled for five penalties.
Deculus' seven sacks allowed tied for 13th-most among tackles despite having just the 65th-most pass-blocking snaps. Deculus was totally inefficient and a downright liability. Why the Titans have chosen to replace a solid Udoh with him is truly a mystery.
The Titans also possess sophomore UDFA tackle Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson on the roster. They were excited about Crenshaw-Dickson last offseason. Hopefully he defeats Deculus for the swing No. 3 role. Double hope that Latham and Moore stay healthy all season long.