The Tennessee Titans’ cornerback L’Jarius Sneed has experienced a significant drop in perception after a challenging first season in Nashville. Acquired in a high-profile trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in March 2024, Sneed was promptly signed to a lucrative four-year contract worth $76.4 million, positioning him among the league’s highest-paid cornerbacks. However, injuries hindered his performance, limiting him to just five games throughout the season.
During those appearances, Sneed’s struggles were evident. He allowed a passer rating of 91.8 when targeted, a stark contrast to the impressive 56.2 passer rating he permitted while with the Chiefs in 2023. This downturn in form has led to a reevaluation of his status in the league.
Dropped from the Rankings
In a recent poll conducted by ESPN, NFL coaches and executives notably excluded Sneed from the top 10 cornerbacks, a significant fall from grace considering he was ranked as the No. 4 cornerback entering the previous season. This sharp decline in standing reflects the disappointment surrounding his performance and the expectations that came with his hefty contract.
ESPN reported, “Obtained in a trade with the Chiefs in March 2024 and subsequently signed to a four-year, $76.4 million contract, Sneed was limited to five games in his first season in Tennessee with a quadriceps injury.” The report also highlighted Sneed’s absence from the Titans’ offseason program, raising concerns about his ability to reclaim his elite status. Tennessee coach Brian Callahan expressed a sense of urgency, stating, “We’re waiting for him to show us the player that he’s been,” during minicamp.
Despite the setbacks, there remains a shred of optimism for Sneed’s future. He earned an honorable mention in the same poll, indicating that some still believe in his potential to rebound. An NFL personnel evaluator remarked, “I know he had a rough year with injuries and some off-the-field stuff, but he was really good for three years [in Kansas City]. The Chiefs must have known it was a good time to walk away.”
As the Titans’ most experienced cornerback and a two-time Super Bowl champion, Sneed has proven he can perform under pressure. The organization hopes to see him regain his peak form this season, although his decision to skip minicamp raises legitimate concerns about his readiness for the upcoming challenges.
The coming season will be pivotal for Sneed, as he attempts to silence critics and reaffirm his place among the elite in the league. The Titans will be closely monitoring his progress as they seek to harness the talent that made him a coveted player just a year ago.
