Tennessee Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi prioritized upgrading the offensive line he inherited this offseason. One of the major moves made was to sign veteran free-agent guard Kevin Zeitler to a one-year contract. Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. was also acquired. It was all done in preparation to select quarterback Cam Ward at No. 1 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The 35-year-old Zeitler appears to be improving with age. For example, the former Wisconsin standout made his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2023. That was with the Baltimore Ravens, and Zeitler was outstanding again for the Detroit Lions in 2024, helping spearhead a Lions offense that finished first in the league in scoring at 33.2 points per game.
Pro Football Focus recently compiled a list of 10 late-career NFL veterans who are still performing at a high level. Unsurprisingly, Zeitler made the cut as a 13-year pro. His inclusion proves the Titans made a brilliant move to acquire him this offseason.
Pro Football Focus recognizes Titans IOL Kevin Zeitler
"The Titans will be Zeitler’s sixth NFL team, which is surprising, given how well he’s played over his career, grading lower than 71.6 overall just once in 13 seasons," Ryan Smith wrote. "His lone year in Detroit was excellent, ranking fourth among 73 qualifying guards with an 86.5 PFF grade — his highest since the 2014 season."
Zeitler has been the definition of consistency throughout his underrated career. The Titans are hoping he can bring stability to a right guard position that's been a weakness in recent seasons. He'll play next to 2024 first-round selection JC Latham, who is switching to right tackle.
"The former first-round pick out of Wisconsin has been extremely durable, averaging 1,038 snaps per season," Smith continued. "In Tennessee, he will be tasked with protecting No. 1 overall pick quarterback Cam Ward."
Ward could have a top-15 offensive line protecting him during his rookie campaign. The Titans are hoping Zeitler is his usual reliable self in 2025. Zeitler's 2024 tape indicates he possesses plenty of remaining juice left.