The Tennessee Titans are reportedly targeting veteran Preston Smith in August 2025 to fix their pass rush. Will the free agent sign and boost the defense?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
With the 2025 preseason just around the corner, the Tennessee Titans are making headlines not just for what's happening on the practice field, but for who might be joining it. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Monday that the Titans are a 'name to watch' for veteran free agent Preston Smith, a move that could provide a much-needed jolt to one of the league's weakest pass-rushing units.
Last season, the Titans used a 75-25 split between Pollard and Spears. Coaches believe Spears could approach 100 carries in 2025.
The buzz around Preston Smith makes perfect sense. After a dismal 3-14 season, improving the defense is paramount, and the pass rush is priority number one. Smith, 32, is a seasoned pro who recorded 4.5 sacks last year but posted three straight seasons with 8+ sacks before that. While some fans are clamoring for a younger player, analysts believe Smith could provide veteran leadership and production on a team-friendly deal under $10 million. It's a classic debate: do you invest in experienced stability or bet on untapped potential? For a team in transition, Smith's presence could be invaluable.
While the front office mulls defensive additions, the offense is a hotbed of competition under new coach Brian Callahan. The tight end battle is particularly fierce, with incumbent Chig Okonkwo and rookie Gunnar Helm both making strong cases. Okonkwo, who worked with new QB Cam Ward in Miami this offseason, remains a yards-after-catch threat, but Helm has turned heads with his contested-catch ability. In the backfield, expect a new dynamic. After a 75-25 carry split last year, coaches are planning a bigger role for Tyjae Spears behind feature back Tony Pollard, citing his explosiveness and improved health.
All these moves and position battles are happening under a completely new leadership structure. After last year's 3-14 finish, the Titans are being rebuilt by GM Mike Borgonzi and Head Coach Brian Callahan. The centerpiece of this rebuild is No. 1 pick Cam Ward, who is set to take his first NFL snaps this preseason. While excitement is high, expectations are measured. Analyst Ben Arthur projects a 7-10 finish, acknowledging that while Ward and a revamped offense offer upside, true playoff contention might be a year away. This season is about laying the foundation.
The speculation and practice reports will soon give way to actual game tape. The Titans kick off their preseason on August 9 on the road against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, followed by trips to Atlanta and a home finale against Minnesota. It will be our first real look at Cam Ward under center, the evolving roles for Spears and the tight ends, and perhaps, a new veteran presence on the defensive line. The rebuild is officially underway.
