The Tennessee Titans have made significant moves during the NFL free agency period to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. One of the most notable transactions involves the replacement of Pro Bowl running back Derrick Henry with Tony Pollard. Pollard, a 26-year-old fourth-round pick out of Memphis in 2019, has agreed to a $24 million, three-year contract with the Titans. The Cowboys, Pollard’s former team, declined to tag him for a second straight season despite his impressive performance of over 1,000 rushing yards and six touchdowns in the previous season. Pollard has a career total of 3,621 rushing yards, averaging 4.8 yards per carry, and 176 receptions for 1,319 yards with five touchdowns.
Henry, who recently turned 30, led the NFL in carries in 2023, falling just short of 2,000 rushing yards for the season. His departure from the Titans marks the end of an era as he is on the verge of hitting free agency for the first time in his career. Despite his departure, the Titans are looking to strengthen their defense with the addition of cornerback Chidobe Awuzie. Awuzie, who is reuniting with new Titans coach Brian Callahan after spending three seasons in Cincinnati, agreed to a three-year deal worth $36 million. The former Dallas Cowboy has tallied six interceptions, four forced fumbles, and two recovered fumbles in his NFL career.
In another move, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair will not be returning for a second season with the Titans. Al-Shaair is expected to sign with the Houston Texans, where he will reunite with former 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans. Al-Shaair led the Titans and ranked fifth in the NFL with 163 combined tackles in his first season with the team in 2023. His departure adds to the defensive overhaul the Titans are undertaking this offseason, with fellow linebacker Jack Gibbens also hitting free agency.
Updates
1. Titans' NFL Free Agency Blitz: Tony Pollard's $24M Deal
2. The Green Bay Packers' Strategic Move: Parting Ways with Veteran
Overall, the Titans are making strategic decisions to revamp their roster and stay competitive in the league. The addition of Pollard and Awuzie, along with the departure of Henry and Al-Shaair, signal a new direction for the team as they gear up for the upcoming NFL season. These moves aim to address key areas of need and set the team up for success in the highly competitive league landscape.
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