The Tennessee Titans entered the offseason expected to make a significant move at linebacker in NFL free agency. New head coach Robert Saleh got his first coaching position job in the league at linebacker. Since then, Saleh has earned a reputation for developing some of the best players at the position.
Despite that, the Titans did not initially spend at linebacker in free agency. General manager Mike Borgonzi committed roughly $295 million to more than 12-plus additions. None of the Titans' first-wave signings were made at linebacker.
The Titans finally added their first linebacker over the weekend. The team agreed to terms with veteran linebacker Mohamoud Diabate, according to Tom Pelissero. The move indicates the Titans have settled their roster at that spot.
Titans sign LB Mohamoud Diabate in move that completes the position room
Diabate, a former undrafted free agent, has appeared in 46 games with 18 starts. The ex-Utah standout broke out as a sophomore in 2024, registering a career-high 70 tackles. Diabate made another 49 tackles in 2025, playing more of a reserve role.
The Titans were linked to several linebackers in free agency. Tremaine Edmunds was one of them following his release from the Chicago Bears, but ended up signing a three-year, $36 million contract with the New York Giants instead. Many also assumed the Titans would sign Bobby Okereke, but he remains available despite his numerous ties to the coaching staff.
Cedric Gray is the Titans' stud at off-ball linebacker after he broke out in 2025 by setting the franchise's single-season tackles record with 164. Gray should really benefit from having Saleh as his head coach. Last offseason's free agency signing Cody Barton is another expected starter at the position, and third-year pro James Williams has flashed when afforded opportunity.
Diabate becomes the fourth quality linebacker in the room. The Titans probably won't acquire another big name at the position. It also lessens the possibility that they draft Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 4 overall, though he's always been considered one of the unlikelier possibilities in the first round.