The Tennessee Titans totally reshaped their defensive line this offseason for new head coach Robert Saleh. General manager Mike Borgonzi spent the offseason acquiring players Saleh had previously coached. He even got creative, trading for Jermaine Johnson II and Solomon Thomas.
The highest-priced acquisition occurred when the Titans signed John Franklin-Myers to a three-year contract worth $63 million. Franklin-Myers broke out as an NFL player while playing for Saleh and the New York Jets. He projects as a very impactful defender on a line next to Jeffery Simmons.
Franklin-Myers is versatile enough to occasionally play EDGE this coming season. Saleh previously utilized him on the edges in New York. When Franklin-Myers plays reps outside, new Titans defensive tackle Jordan Elliott may be trusted to pick up the slack next to Simmons inside.
John Franklin-Myers' versatility for Tennessee Titans creates opportunity for DT Jordan Elliott
The Titans signed Elliott to a two-year contract in free agency worth $8 million. He's one of various defensive lineman acquired this offseason that previously played for Saleh. Elliott played for Saleh's San Francisco 49ers this past season, registering 31 tackles and 15 quarterback pressures.
When Franklin-Myers plays outside, it's believed Elliott is first in-line to earn the available reps at defensive tackle. He's a more accomplished player than fellow veteran Solomon Thomas. Rookie defensive tackle Jackie Marshall is simply attempting to make the 53-man roster.
Second-round rookie Keldric Faulk is also versatile enough to occasionally play inside via an Arik Armstead-like role in Saleh's defense. The Titans will probably primarily ask Faulk to focus on setting the edge, though. Elliott appears to be the third defensive tackle in the lineup, and first option off the bench.
The Titans signed Elliott to a decent-sized contract because Saleh appreciates his ability. With moving pieces around Saleh's defensive line, don't be shocked if Elliott plays a larger role than fans first anticipated. He's capable of doing so.
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