The Tennessee Titans have outspent all 31 NFL teams throughout the first wave of free agency. General manager Mike Borgonzi has committed $294 million to 12-plus acquisitions. More than $130 million was fully guaranteed to the Titans' initial crop of free-agent signings.
Borgonzi prefers to draft and develop talent, but the sad state of the roster due to failures from previous GMs led to Tennessee having to accelerate the rebuilding process. The Titans are understandably trying to improve after enduring consecutive 3-14 seasons. New data collected by Unexpected Points suggests the Titans are primed to do just that in 2026.
The Offseason Improvement Index analyses offseason moves made by all 32 teams, comparing end-of-season roster point-differential projections. The Titans clock in at third-best, according to Kevin Cole. The data indicates the Titans should be one of the most improved teams in the league in 2026.
Data indicates Titans are among most improved teams in the NFL
Last year's offseason model claimed the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Carolina Panthers were the three-most improved teams. All three qualified for the playoffs after disappointing 2024 seasons. Furthermore, it even correctly predicted the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Jets to be top 2025 regression candidates.
2026 NFL Offseason Improvement Index is up and running @Unexpected_Pts
— Kevin Cole (@KevinCole___) March 11, 2026
Compares end-of-season roster point-differential projections to those reflecting offseason changes, including draft capital effects.
It doesn't project this well *every* offseason, but 2025 results were… pic.twitter.com/DLMpebXGCi
Franchise quarterback Cam Ward will be entering his sophomore season in 2026. The team signed wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson to a four-year, $70 million contract to help better support Ward. They also retained Calvin Ridley, who was an expected salary cap casualty.
The defense has received the majority of attention. New head coach Robert Saleh is a defensive-minded leader who has had autonomy to oversee the majority of moves made. A total of six defenders have been acquired who previously played for Saleh, including big-time acquisitions like John Franklin-Myers and Jermaine Johnson II.
It's been similar on offense, where the majority of incoming players have history with new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. The Titans believe they're building a strong culture and a better roster under the direction of Borgonzi, Saleh, and Daboll. All signs point to the strategy leading to significant improvement in 2026.