Titans legend has strong opinion on David Long Jr.'s future with the team
There is no better evaluator when it comes to the play of Tennessee Titans’ linebackers than Titans legend Keith Bulluck. Bulluck, who most consider to be the best linebacker in Titans history, visited with the Titan Up Podcast ahead of Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. In the interview, Bulluck offered his opinions on […]
There is no better evaluator when it comes to the play of Tennessee Titans’ linebackers than Titans legend Keith Bulluck.
Bulluck, who most consider to be the best linebacker in Titans history, visited with the Titan Up Podcast ahead of Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. In the interview, Bulluck offered his opinions on Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing, owner Amy Adams Strunk, and Tennessee’s playoff possibilities.
However, his thoughts on LB David Long Jr. were quite thought-provoking.
Long, who was recently placed on Injured Reserve, is slated to be a free agent after the season. This leaves the Titans with a decision whenever they hire a general manager.
“He knows the defense, he’s beyond playing instinctive at this point, he actually knows where to be. He understands how the offense is trying to attack the defense and he puts himself in position to make a lot of plays within the run game, gets his hands on the ball within the pass game,” Bulluck stated.
“He’s right there on the cusp of taking that next step to become a Pro Bowl, possibly All-Pro, player if he continues to develop within this system.”
Listen to Titan Up Pod's full interview with Keith Bulluck on Spotify.
Listen to Titan Up Pod's full interview with Keith Bulluck on Apple Podcasts.
When he’s been on the field, Long has made a consistent impact in the middle of the Titans’ defense. Unfortunately, injuries have hampered him through his four-year career.
Long is believed to be one of the NFL’s top free agents at the linebacker position, but the Titans must make sure the money is right.
Per Spotrac, Long’s market value is projected to be just south of $5 million annually, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see him command a touch more than that on the open market.
Ultimately, the Titans would be better off re-signing Long. Like Bulluck said, Long has taken major strides in the system as a two-way linebacker. Moving on from a home-grown talent, who is showing growth in the defense, is a risk the Titans can’t afford to take.
Featured image via Christopher Hanewinckel – USA TODAY Sports
