Tennessee Titans
The decline was slow but definitive. After reaching the playoffs three straight years from 2019-21, reaching the AFC title game that first year, the Tennessee Titans have posted double-digit loss campaigns each of the past two seasons. Former Bengals’ offensive coordinator Brian Callahan is the team’s newest head coach. Executive vice president/general manager Ran Carthon has been highly proactive this offseason.
The big news was the trade that brings two-time Super Bowl champion cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to Nashville. In four seasons with the Chiefs, the 2020 fourth-round pick from Louisiana Tech played in 57 regular-season games for Andy Reid’s team. He totaled 10 interceptions, 6.5 sacks, three fumble recoveries, and 40 passes defensed. He already has 13 postseason games on his resume.
The signing of wide receiver Calvin Ridley strengthens the Titans’ passing attack and takes a vital weapon away from the rival Jaguars. He comes off a season in which he totaled 76 catches and led Jacksonville in receiving yards (1,016) and touchdown grabs (8).
The addition of versatile running back Tomy Pollard is a plus, but the departure of workhorse Derrick Henry can’t be understated. Neither can the free-agent departure of unsung defensive end Denico Autry, who led the team with 11.5 sacks in 2023. Former Broncos’ center Lloyd Cushenberry replaces Aaron Brewer, who signed with the Miami Dolphins. The question here is whether the new faces offset some huge departures.