Tennessee Titans: A Potential Landing Spot for Za’Darius Smith.
The Tennessee Titans find themselves in a pivotal moment as they look to bolster their pass rush ahead of the upcoming NFL season. With a roster that includes veterans like Arden Key, Dre’Mont Jones, and Lorenzo Carter, along with promising rookie Femi Oladejo, the Titans are poised for improvement. However, the addition of another experienced player could significantly enhance their defensive capabilities.
Za’Darius Smith: A Veteran Presence
Former linebacker Za’Darius Smith is emerging as a compelling option for the Titans. Recognized as one of the top free agents in the league, Smith ranked seventh on ESPN analyst Matt Bowen’s list of available players. His performance last season, which included nine sacks and 38 pressures across stints with the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions, underscores his potential impact. Smith’s ability to transition between roles—whether as a speed-to-power rusher or aligning as a standup nose or 3-technique—positions him as a versatile asset for any team seeking depth in their edge rush.
At 32 years old, Smith’s journey in the NFL began a decade ago when he was selected in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. His four seasons in Baltimore set the stage for a lucrative contract with the Green Bay Packers in 2019, where he thrived, recording 26 sacks in his first two seasons and earning Second-team All-Pro honors in 2020. However, injuries marred his 2021 season, leading to his release from Green Bay.
After a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings, where he returned to form with 10 sacks in 2022, Smith faced another transition. The Vikings traded him to the Browns, where he experienced a dip in production, finishing the season with 5.5 sacks. A mid-season trade to the Lions allowed him to step in for the injured Aidan Hutchinson, and he proved his worth by starting 16 games, demonstrating that he still has the capability to be a starter in the league.
As the Titans weigh their options, the prospect of signing Za’Darius Smith could be beneficial for both parties. The Titans would gain a seasoned pass rusher with a proven track record, while Smith would have the opportunity to rejuvenate his career in a new environment. With the Titans’ need for a reliable edge rusher and Smith’s desire to contribute meaningfully, this potential partnership could be a win-win scenario.
As the offseason progresses, the Titans remain a team to watch closely. With several questions still lingering about their roster, the addition of a player like Smith could provide the spark they need to enhance their defensive lineup.
