Jobless former Titans bust may be forced into early retirement

Green Bay Packers v Tennessee Titans
Green Bay Packers v Tennessee Titans | Johnnie Izquierdo/GettyImages

The Tennessee Titans were committed to improving their offensive line this offseason. New general manager Mike Borgonzi made an immediate splash in free agency by signing left tackle Dan Moore to a four-year contract worth $82 million. Moore will play left tackle in Tennessee, meaning his arrival kicks sophomore blocker JC Latham over to the right side.

Latham will replace Nicholas Petit-Frere, who played the majority of snaps at right tackle last season. A 2022 third-round pick, Petit-Frere was especially unimpressive. Borgonzi made the swift decision to release him earlier this offseason after being appointed as Tennessee's GM.

Petit-Frere was downright terrible last season. The former Ohio State standout allowed 10 sacks despite playing just 614 snaps, per Pro Football Focus. Discipline was another issue altogether for Petit-Frere, who was whistled for 10 penalties.

Petit-Frere eventually signed with the San Francisco 49ers in early May, prior to organized team activities (OTAs). Petit-Frere was on the roster for precisely six OTA practices. He was released on June 3rd, roughly one week prior to mandatory minicamp.

With training camps beginning around the league, Petit-Frere currently remains unsigned.

Titans bust OT Nicholas Petit-Frere may be forced into early retirement

It's a terrible indicator that the 49ers released Petit-Frere before mandatory minicamp. A handful of non-contact practices was enough for San Francisco to decide Petit-Frere isn't an NFL-caliber player, even for their 90-man offseason roster. The 25-year-old tackle has been waiting around for another opportunity to present itself since.

Petit-Frere's lackluster on-field results may not be the only thing preventing him from signing another contract. He was suspended in 2023 for accidentally violating the league's gambling policy. It's another blemish on NPF's already spotty resume.

The Titans have had numerous busts over the previous five drafts. Petit-Frere is among the biggest, alongside Caleb Farley, Will Levis, and Isaiah Wilson. There's no guarantee Petit-Frere will play in the NFL again. A strong showing in an offseason developmental league may be required.