The Tennessee Titans recorded the third-fewest sacks in the NFL last season. New general manager Mike Borgonzi then came in and released 2024 sack leader Harold Landry III from his contract. Landry was overpaid, but his departure still creates a challenge for a unit that failed to inspire confidence last year.
Nor did Borgonzi make massive investments in the position this offseason. With holes all over the roster, Borgonzi had to pick and choose his focus areas. EDGE received some attention, via the additions of second-round pick Femi Oladejo, and veteran free-agent adds Dre'Mont Jones and Lorenzo Carter.
Still, the position didn't receive the type of offseason makeover that indicates it'll be significantly better in 2025. Jones was released from his contract by the Seattle Seahawks before joining Tennessee via a one-year deal. Carter didn't record any sacks last year. Oladejo made a midseason position switch from off-ball linebacker to pass rusher that indicates he's a work in progress.
On paper, EDGE is the Titans' biggest concern heading into next week's training camp report date.
It's also the way-too-early favorite to be the Titans' first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. ESPN's Matt Miller recently released a mock draft. Miller has the Titans addressing the EDGE position by taking Clemson's T.J. Parker at No. 3 overall.
Titans address EDGE in way-too-early 2026 NFL mock draft
"Tennessee has long needed a premier edge rusher, and Parker is definitely that," Miller wrote. "Not only did the 6-foot-3, 265-pound junior have 11 sacks last season, but he also forced six fumbles. He would be an ideal fit in the Titans' 3-4 base defense thanks to his ability to play in space and rush from multiple alignments. His quickness off the corner is the best in the class when watching last season's tape. While the Titans could use offensive help, Parker is the defensive menace they desire."
If you're wondering, the draft order was determined by ESPN's Football Power Index, which uses thousands of simulations to predict the 2025 NFL season. They have the Titans as the third-worst team in the NFL.
Jones, Carter, and Arden Key are on expiring deals. The Titans desperately need a long-term solution at EDGE, and will hope Oladejo can develop into a multi-year contributor. Parker projects as a potentially elite pass rusher. Hopefully the Titans aren't picking early enough to land Parker, but he'd be a consolation prize in a bad season.