With WR DeAndre Hopkins visiting the Titans as a free agent this week and leaving Nashville without a deal in place, it has led me to believe that Hopkins will likely sign elsewhere. Hopkins should still absolutely be the number one priority for the Titans, but I’ve had my doubts that the Titans would be able to strike a deal with him since he became a free agent.
In the event that Hopkins decides to sign elsewhere, the Titans must consider other viable options in free agency, even at positions other than WR. Here are three free-agent targets outside of Hopkins that could bolster the Titans’ lineup and address areas of need.
1. Free Agent WR – Jarvis Landry:
Former New Orleans WR Jarvis Landry (5) – Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Landry emerges as an excellent free-agent alternative for the Titans’ wide receiver position if Hopkins signs elsewhere. Although he suffered an ankle injury last season, Landry has proven to be a playmaker when healthy throughout his career. Notably, three of his best seasons came when he played alongside current Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill in Miami. From 2015-2017, Landry had 316 catches, 3280 yards receiving, and 17 touchdown receptions.
While nobody expects Landry to continue to have that same level of production, he can add a level of proven NFL production that the Titans don’t have with their current WR group. The Titans’ young receiving corps could greatly benefit from Landry’s veteran leadership and experience. Considering his age and recent injury, Landry should come at a reasonable price.
It’s unclear how serious the ankle injury he suffered last year is, but if he’s healthy, he should be the Titans’ main ta Last season, he signed a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints worth $3 million, and it is likely that the Titans could secure him for a similar or even more affordable contract as a free agent this year.
2. Free Agent DE – Matt Ioannidis:
Former Washington DE Matt Ioannidis (98) – Al Pereira/Getty Images
While the focus and online discussion have rightfully been focused on the Titans’ need for wide receivers, the defensive end position should not be overlooked. The departure of DeMarcus Walker to the Chicago Bears has created a void that needs to be filled. Walker accounted for a career-high seven sacks last season. Matt Ioannidis, who played as a defensive tackle in Carolina’s 4-3 scheme last year, was the most productive as a 3-4 defensive end in Washington. He had a three-year period there where he posted impressive sack numbers, recording 4.5 sacks in 2018, 7.5 sacks in 2019, and a career-high 8.5 sacks in 2020.
If there’s anyone who is able to get the most out of a defensive lineman, it’s Mike Vrabel. DeMarcus Walker is proof of that with having his career-best season under Vrabel. At the age of 29, Ioannidis could be a valuable addition to the Titans’ strong defense, could fit well within their scheme, and at the very least, provide much-needed depth at DE. The longer the offseason progresses, the Titans should be able to secure his services at a reasonable price, most likely on a one or two-year “prove it deal.”
3. Free Agent OG – Dalton Risner:
Former Broncos LG Dalton Risner (66)- G Fiume/GettyImages
Risner’s availability in the current offseason is surprising, given the fact that he has been a solid starter and has stayed healthy throughout his four-year career so far. He has only missed just four games due to injury in his four seasons. Risner’s reliability and consistency on the offensive line make him an attractive option for the Titans, who have made rebuilding their offensive line a top priority this offseason through the draft and free agency. By adding Risner, the Titans would continue to strengthen their offensive line but also provide much-needed depth and flexibility.
While the current projected starting right guard, Daniel Brunskill, brings versatility, Risner’s presence would allow Brunskill to assume his natural role and serve as a valuable depth piece along the rest of the offensive line. Although Risner may command a higher price tag than the other targets on this list, it is unlikely he will secure a deal at the $9.5 million average annual salary projected by Spotrac at this point in free agency. The Titans could potentially sign Risner for a more affordable contract and solidify their offensive line as one of the most improved offensive lines in the entire NFL.
Conclusion:
Although DeAndre Hopkins is the Titans’ primary target, it is essential to start exploring alternative options in the event of his signing elsewhere. Jarvis Landry, with his versatility and veteran leadership, can provide a desperately needed spark to the wide receiver corps. Matt Ioannidis, a productive scheme fit at the defensive end, would strengthen the Titans’ defensive line and, at worse, could provide much-needed depth. Lastly, Dalton Risner’s reliability and experience would greatly contribute to the Titans’ offensive line. By pursuing these free agents, the Titans can continue their number one offseason focus of getting stronger in the trenches.
