The Tennessee Titans had been consistently linked to pursuing pending free-agent running back Breece Hall. It made sense. Titans running back Tony Pollard is a potential cap casualty, and new head coach Robert Saleh previously coached Hall with the New York Jets.
Well, that possibility no longer exists. The New York Jets announced their decision to place the non-exclusive franchise tag on Hall, guaranteeing him a one-year contract if an extension isn't reached by July 15. The aggressiveness of the tag essentially ensures Hall will remain with the Jets in 2026.
If Saleh and Mike Borgonzi still prefer to sign a running back in free agency, they're now forced to pivot to alternative options. There are no straightforward solutions. That could mean the Titans weigh more risky propositions.
Titans must pivot at RB after Jets franchise tag Breece Hall
The top clear-cut option at running back is now Kenneth Walker III, if the Seahawks fail to sign the Super Bowl 60 MVP to an extension. The current indication is that Walker will test free agency. He's set to capitalize on a dreamlike postseason run, and the Titans should probably be weary to meet his asking demands.
The choices seriously begin to dwindle after Walker. Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. is probably the next-best option. Etienne bounced back in 2025 after a down year in 2024, rushing for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns. He's also an asset as a pass catcher, having registered 35-plus receptions in four straight seasons.
The remaining options all feel like rotational backs. Rico Dowdle, Tyler Allgeier, Brian Robinson, and Rachaad White should all be grouped as intriguing. Dowdle is coming off a second straight 1,000-yard season, but turned 28 in January. Allgeier may be the most appealing. He rushed for 1,000 yards as a rookie before the Falcons drafted Bijan Robinson, and has since thrived in a handcuff role, scoring a career-high eight touchdowns in 2025.
The Titans should attempt to become more dynamic in the backfield this offseason. The options in free agency indicate Walker may be the only pending veteran player available capable of making that happen. Borgonzi and Saleh should weigh all options, but most come with incredible risk and a low ceiling.