NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In an effort to strengthen the interior of their defensive lineup, the Tennessee Titans have secured linebacker Cody Barton on a three-year contract. This move was part of a series of signings unveiled on Thursday as the team reshapes its roster.
The Titans, known for making strategic trades, have sent linebacker Kenneth Murray to the Dallas Cowboys for a sixth-round draft pick. Despite Murray’s significant impact last season with 95 tackles and a career-high of 3 1/2 sacks in 14 starts, the Titans saw value in this trade. With Barton now in the lineup, he will collaborate with Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons, T’Vondre Sweat, and newly signed Dre’Mont Jones, who joins the team on a one-year deal.
Holding the No. 1 overall draft selection in April, the Titans are gearing up under the new leadership of General Manager Mike Borgonzi. They began the free agency period by enhancing their offensive line, highlighted by a four-year contract with left tackle Dan Moore and a one-year agreement with right guard Kevin Zeitler. These moves aim to address the previous issues they faced, as demonstrated by the 52 sacks allowed last season, a figure surpassed by only four teams in 2024. JC Latham, the prior left tackle drafted at No. 7 overall, plans to shift to the right side to optimize line performance.
Additionally, the team has added Blake Hance to the offensive line to provide much-needed depth. In the special teams’ arena, the Titans have opted for a punter change, bringing in seasoned veteran Johnny Hekker, a four-time Pro Bowler, to replace Ryan Stonehouse. Despite Stonehouse achieving the highest single-season gross punting averages in NFL history with a 52.2-yard average from 2022 to 2024, the Titans sought the experience and skill set Hekker brings, especially with former special teams coordinator John Fassel, now with the Titans.
Further changes to the roster include signing safety Xavier Woods to a two-year contract and enhancing the receiving corps with Van Jefferson’s acquisition. The Titans also released guard Saahdiq Charles while welcoming back defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day, who had a solid previous season with 12 starts in 17 games. These strategic decisions reflect the organization’s focused approach to addressing last season’s shortcomings and building a competitive squad for the upcoming challenges.
