The Tennessee Titans have been busy during this offseason, but one notable move could result in the departure of safety Kevin Byard. The team has requested that he take a pay cut, which he declined, leading to speculation that he could be released in order to free up salary cap space. Byard has been one of the team’s top players, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors twice in his seven-year career. Losing him would be a significant blow for the Titans, who are already facing challenges after an underwhelming 7-10 finish last season. The team has overhauled their offensive line and made a few new additions to their defensive line. They are also looking to fill the void left by the departure of veteran receiver Robert Woods. As they continue to make moves, the team is focused on maintaining their impressive rushing defense, led by star running back Derrick Henry. Will the Titans be able to bounce back and make the playoffs next year?
Important Details about The Titans Could Reportedly Cut An All-Pro Safety –
– Tennessee Titans have made significant changes in the offseason.
– Offensive line has been overhauled, and defensive linemen Azeez Al-Shaair and Arden Key have been added.
– Safety Kevin Byard has been asked to take a pay cut and could be released by the team.
– Byard has made the Pro Bowl and All-Pro first team twice in his career and has been with the Titans his entire career.
– Losing Byard would be a sizable blow for the team.
– The Titans finished first in rushing yards allowed in 2022.
– Maintaining this is imperative to its chances of making the playoffs next year.
– Quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s performance was lackluster last season, but the team is moving forward with him under center.
– The Titans’ meal ticket will be star running back Derrick Henry.
– The team needs help at wide receiver, especially after losing veteran Robert Woods this offseason.
The Tennessee Titans: Analyzing Their Offseason Moves and Potential Outlook
The Tennessee Titans wrapped up the 2022 NFL season with a 7-10 record, a major disappointment for a team that had playoff aspirations. In response, the organization has made significant changes to its roster during the offseason. This article will examine some of these moves while also taking a look at what the Titans might expect in the upcoming season.
Offensive Line Overhaul
One of the main reasons for the Titans’ subpar performance last year was their inadequate offensive line. The team’s brass clearly recognizes this, as evidenced by their commitment to revamping the unit. Notably, the Titans let go of right tackle Dennis Kelly, who signed a lucrative deal with the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, left guard Rodger Saffold was released, although the team attempted to restructure his contract before the move.
Tennessee’s new-look offensive line features several notable additions, including center Garrett Bradbury and tackle Josh Reynolds. Bradbury, a former first-round pick, struggled in his first few seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, but he could be a valuable piece for the Titans if he can rediscover his form. Reynolds, on the other hand, has shown flashes of brilliance during his time in the NFL, but consistency has been an issue. If he can put it all together, Reynolds could be a key contributor to the Titans’ offense.
Defensive Line Additions
In addition to bolstering their offensive line, the Titans have added depth to their defensive line. Azeez Al-Shaair and Arden Key, both formerly of the San Francisco 49ers, were brought in during free agency. The two players have shown potential during their respective careers, and the Titans will look for them to step up and make an impact.
Kevin Byard Situation
Despite Byard’s considerable skills as a safety, the Titans have reportedly asked him to take a pay cut. Byard refused, and he could now be on his way out of Tennessee. This move would not only be a blow to the Titans in terms of talent but also in terms of leadership. Byard has been with the team since 2016 and has earned two Pro Bowl nods and two All-Pro first-team selections during that time.
Possible Replacement for Byard
If the Titans do decide to move on from Byard, they will likely look to find a replacement in the draft or through free agency. One potential target is Antoine Winfield Jr., who has been mentioned in various trade rumors. Winfield had an impressive second season in 2022, finishing with four interceptions and 81 total tackles. He could provide the Titans with some much-needed playmaking ability in the secondary.
Maintaining Productivity on Defense
While the Titans struggled mightily on offense last season, their defense was actually one of the best in the NFL. They finished first in rushing yards allowed and ninth in total yards allowed. To make the playoffs next season, Tennessee will need to maintain a high level of play on defense. This means continuing to stymie opponents’ rushing attacks, generating turnovers, and limiting big plays down the field.
Ryan Tannehill’s Future
Quarterback Ryan Tannehill had a disappointing season in 2022, with just 13 touchdown passes to his name. Despite this, the Titans are sticking with him for the time being. While Tannehill may not be the most exciting option under center, he has shown flashes of brilliance in the past. Perhaps a revamped offensive line and better weapons at his disposal will allow him to return to form in 2023.
Derrick Henry is Still the Key
Despite their issues on offense, the Titans still have one of the best running backs in the league in Derrick Henry. The two-time rushing champion tallied over 1,500 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, earning his third Pro Bowl selection in the process. As long as Henry stays healthy, he will be the centerpiece of the Titans’ offense.
Wide Receiver Woes
The Titans had a poor receiving corps in 2022, with A.J. Brown traded away mid-season and Robert Woods leaving in free agency. Tennessee will need to find some playmakers to help take the pressure off of Henry and Tannehill. One potential option could be to pursue a veteran wide receiver in free agency, such as Odell Beckham Jr. or Antonio Brown. Alternatively, they could try to address the position in the draft.
Conclusion
The Tennessee Titans have made significant changes to their roster during the offseason in an effort to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 campaign. They have overhauled their offensive line, added depth to their defensive line, and face uncertainty surrounding the future of safety Kevin Byard. The team will lean heavily on Derrick Henry once again and hope that Ryan Tannehill can improve upon his lackluster 2022 season. However, there are still question marks surrounding the receiving corps and the overall productivity of the offense. The success of the Titans in 2023 will depend on how well the team can address these issues and maintain their dominant defensive play from last season.