The Tennessee Titans are hoping for better results in the pass-rushing department this coming season. Last year's struggles with getting opposing quarterbacks on the ground were well documented. Tennessee's defense finished tied for 30th in sacks with 32.
Despite that, new general manager Mike Borgonzi didn't make any sizable investments in pass rushers this offseason, though potential reinforcements did arrive in numbers. Veteran journeyman Lorenzo Carter was signed in free agency. After trading down 17 spots in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Borgonzi took linebacker-turned-EDGE Femi Oladejo at No. 52 overall.
Both Carter and Oladejo will play a role in Wilson's new-look defense in 2025. Arguably the most notable acquisition was Dre'Mont Jones, however. Though Jones was only signed to a one-year deal, it carries a maximum value of a noticeable $8.5 million.
Jones is expected to fill a big-time spot on defense. On paper, he's slated to start opposite Arden Key at EDGE in base looks. There are other possibilities to get creative with Jones' usage. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is over-the-moon excited to have the veteran defender at his disposal, he recently said at mandatory minicamp.
Titans DC Dennard Wilson is excited to have Dre'Mont Jones
"It put a smile on my face when we got Dre'mont Jones," Wilson said before Wednesday's practice. "He's a great teammate and is always trying to help. He's a bully off the edge. He can condense the pocket and win matchups. He can do multiple things."
It put a smile on my face when we got Dre'mont Jones. He's a great teammate and is always trying to help/teach. He's a bully off the edge. He can condense the pocket and win 1v1 matchups. He can do multiple things. - Dennard Wilson on Dre'mont Jones pic.twitter.com/u5MNJCyuz2
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) June 11, 2025
Jones recorded 28 tackles and four sacks for the Seattle Seahawks last season. He never lived up to the three-year, $51.3 million deal the Seahawks signed him to in free agency after four impressive campaigns with the Denver Broncos. Seattle often asked him to play unconventional roles across their defensive line. The Titans will attempt to make him more comfortable.
Part of Tennessee's plan for Jones could see Wilson deploy him in an inside-outside versatile role. For example, the former Ohio State standout may align at EDGE on early downs. In third-down passing situations, the Titans could kick Jones inside next to Jeffery Simmons in place of T'Vondre Sweat, with Oladejo and Key playing the edges. That'd allow the Titans to get their four best pass rushers on the field.
Jones is attempting to rehabilitate his reputation after a lackluster tenure in Seattle. The Titans are searching for improved pass-rushing efficiency. Together, they could help each other achieve their goal. Wilson has a plan for his veteran rusher.