The Tennessee Titans traded veteran defensive end Dre'Mont Jones to the Baltimore Ravens on Monday in exchange for a 2026 conditional fifth-round pick that could become a fourth-rounder. Jones had signed a one-year contract with the Titans this past offseason.
The rebuilding Titans enter Tuesday's trade deadline with an NFL-worst record of 1-8. Jones had recorded 4.5 sacks over the previous four outings, increasing his value around the league right before the trade deadline. With Jones on an expiring contract, general manager Mike Borgonzi prefers draft capital to help inject the roster with talent.
Jones only spent a few short, productive months in Nashville, but he appreciated his time with the Titans. The veteran defensive end posted a heartfelt message on his official social media accounts while confirming his departure. Jones notably went out of his way to praise rookie quarterback Cam Ward in a loud-and-clear message Titans fans needed to hear.
Dre'Mont Jones confirms Titans trade, praises rookie QB Cam Ward on his way out the door
"Cam [Ward] is the truth too y’all give ‘em time, he can be great!," Jones said after thanking the Titans for the opportunity.
The NFL is too crazy lol. Thank you Titans family I loved and appreciated my short time in Nashville too much. Cam is the truth too y’all give ‘em time, he can be great!
— Dre'Mont Jones (@TheOfficial_80) November 4, 2025
I’m ready to be Raven rocking that purple and black! #RavensFlock https://t.co/oVUTh2Qp6K
It's been tough sledding for Ward throughout his rookie campaign. The No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft has thrown for just 1,760 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions in nine appearances this season.
Fumbles have been a recurring issue with Ward accounting for approximately double the amount of turnovers as touchdowns. Watching the tape a little closer than the box score indicates Ward isn't solely at fault for his struggles. The Titans have placed him in an impossible situation.
The Titans stripped former head coach Brian Callahan of play-calling after Week 3 and handed that responsibility to quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree. Callahan was later fired and replaced by Mike McCoy on an interim basis. The dysfunctional Titans have already handed Ward two different coaches and play callers.
Personnel has also been an issue. The offensive line has underperformed given the resources poured into it. Calvin Ridley struggled with drops before getting injured, meaning two fourth-round picks, Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, have become Ward's go-to targets.
Titans players know Ward is performing better than his pedestrian stat lines indicate. Jones' praise for a rookie quarterback who isn't struggling as much as the general public believes he is was warranted. Jones' message was necessary, as the Titans must continue being patient with Ward's development.