The Tennessee Titans could enter the market for an upgrade at running back this offseason. The general expectation is that veteran Tony Pollard could be released from his contract, with $7.2 million in available savings. Improving a rushing attack that finished 30th in yards per game is an offseason priority.
Fellow running back Tyjae Spears factors into the equation. A dynamic playmaker when healthy, staying consistently available has unfortunately eluded the former Tulane standout in recent years. The Titans must take that into account when making decisions at running back this offseason.
Spears is now slated to enter the final season of his rookie contract in 2026. Current general manager Mike Borgonzi inherited him from the Ran Carthon regime. Spears appears destined to play out his final campaign in Tennessee throughout 2026.
Titans RB Tyjae Spears is entering a fate-deciding contract year in 2026
Spears was an electric talent during his rookie 2023 season. Despite backing up the bellcow Derrick Henry, Spears rushed for 453 yards, adding another 383 to his offensive totals as a pass catcher. Unfortunately, injuries have since prevented him from replicating that form.
Spears missed a career-high five contests as a sophomore. He was limited to 312 rushing yards and a pedestrian 3.7 yards per carry. The 2025 campaign, Spears' third with the Titans, didn't bring much better luck or production.
Spears missed another four games throughout 2025. The 81st overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft rushed for a career-low 283 yards and failed to surpass the 4.0 yard per carry rushing mark for a second consecutive campaign. Spears was his consistent self as a pass-catching weapon, but the Titans often limited his touches to increase his chances of staying healthy.
Spears had injury concerns coming out of Tulane. Nonetheless, Carthon decided to select him with a top-100 pick. Running back is a devalued position in the NFL Draft. The Titans drafted the speedy ball carrier in the range where NFL teams often acquire starting-caliber running backs. Recurring injuries have prevented Spears from reaching that potential.
Spears is entering a fate-deciding 2026 campaign. Staying healthy and productive is imperative in a contract season. The initial expectation is that Spears will probably be playing elsewhere in 2027.