The Tennessee Titans are entering the 2025 campaign with a massive hole at EDGE. Dennard Wilson's defense recorded the third-fewest sacks in the NFL (32) last season. It doesn't forecast as being significantly improved this year.
The Titans have Arden Key, Femi Oladejo, Dre'Mont Jones, and Jihad Ward as their primary edge rushers. Key is slightly undersized to be a three-down player, but is energetic and speedy. Jones and Ward are bigger and stouter with limited pass-rushing upside. Oladejo is a raw second-round rookie who is still acclimating to the position and professional football.
EDGE is the early favorite to be Tennessee's biggest 2026 offseason need. With college football's campaign starting this past weekend, there was a huge breakout star that should immediately be on the Titans' scouting radar. Miami Hurricanes EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. was outstanding in the Week 1 victory over Notre Dame.
Titans should have Rueben Bain Jr. on their radar after impressive Week 1 display
Bain was credited with six total tackles, half a sack, and one interception. His takeaway was a highlight-reel-worthy acrobatic play. Bain was named ACC Defensive Player of the Week for his standout performance.
#Miami DL Rueben Bain vs. Notre Dame
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) September 1, 2025
The prospect that I had circled for Week 1 didn’t disappoint. Finished with 6 tackles, 0.5 sack and an INT. pic.twitter.com/TS0isDQUTJ
The Titans made a conscious effort to get stronger at defensive end this offseason. The Hurricanes list Bain at 6-foot-3 and approximately 275 pounds. That fits the Titans' preferred body type at the position, with a three-down capability to stop the run and rush the passer.
Bain possesses incredible bend for a pass rusher of his size and stature. His power often overwhelms offensive tackles. Unsurprisingly, Bain also uses those traits to be a high-end run defender, offering him a high floor at the NFL level.
Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi will be keeping a watchful eye on Bain this season. Don't forget rookie quarterback Cam Ward was teammates with him at Miami in 2024. Placing Bain alongside Jeffery Simmons, T'Vondre Sweat, and a developing Oladejo would come with untold potential attached.