Chig Okonkwo faces uncertain future with Titans as trade rumors swirl before final contract year

Chig Okonkwo’s Future with the Titans in Question Amid Trade Speculation:

As Chig Okonkwo gears up for the final year of his rookie contract, uncertainty looms over his future with the Tennessee Titans. The fourth-year tight end, who was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft from Maryland, has displayed consistent performance throughout his career. However, the time has come for him to elevate his game as trade rumors swirl around him.

Easton Freeze, an insider for A to Z Sports, suggests that a trade involving Okonkwo is not out of the question. He pointed out that the Titans may not be inclined to extend Okonkwo’s contract, raising speculations about his potential departure. “There’s a decent shot the Titans aren’t interested in bringing him back,” Freeze noted. The reasons behind this speculation could range from financial constraints to the emergence of rookie Gunnar Helm, who might be poised to take over Okonkwo’s role.

Despite the possibility of a trade, Freeze emphasizes that Okonkwo should not be viewed as a mere throw-in. He is currently the Titans’ starting tight end, and his value as a trade asset is significant. “I wouldn’t be interested in anything less than late Day 2 value,” he stated, referring to the potential return the Titans should seek. This could mean a third-round pick or a combination of a Day 3 pick along with a player in exchange for Okonkwo. Freeze acknowledges the risk involved in trading him, especially if he walks away after the season without any compensation. “But Cam’s situation is just too important to me. So don’t trade Okonkwo just to trade him,” he added.