Tennessee Titans: Why the Titans may NOT bring back Harold Landry
The Titans are at a crossroads with one of their most talented players. Harold Landry, arguably their best defensive lineman besides Jeffery Simmons, is a free agent. He is set for a very large payday as well. He deserves it after his production over the last couple of seasons. Landry has developed into one of […]
The Titans are at a crossroads with one of their most talented players. Harold Landry, arguably their best defensive lineman besides Jeffery Simmons, is a free agent. He is set for a very large payday as well. He deserves it after his production over the last couple of seasons. Landry has developed into one of the most well-rounded edge defenders in the NFL.
The decision isn't cut and dry, though. Of course, the Titans want his talent back. Every team would. Trying to navigate the salary cap while making him the highest-paid member of the defensive line is the challenge. Doing that may result in other aspects of the roster taking a hit. Specifically, the offensive line could be impacted if the team couldn't bring back center Ben Jones. He is a free agent as well and has been one of the most consistent players on their OL for years. Landry is the largest domino to fall that will affect him and others.
Austin Stanley broke down why the Titans may not re-sign the dynamic defensive player.
I certainly see Austin's point of view. The defensive line has multiple other high-end pieces, and Jeffery Simmons will need an extension very soon. Denico Autry and Bud Dupree are already getting paid quite well, and the depth has shown impressive flashes behind them.
That being said, I don't believe letting him walk in favor of Ben Jones and another role player is the best option. That is most likely where his money would go. Rather, I would look to free agency for veteran options on the interior of the offensive line that will cost less than Jones. He's been a good player, but there will be scheme fits available at a better price. Not to mention, the Titans could look at offensive linemen on day two of the NFL Draft. Interior offensive linemen Kenyon Green from Texas A&M or Zion Johnson from Boston College could both be options in the first round as well.
Another option is to franchise tag and trade Landry. These rarely happen in the NFL even if they are discussed pretty often. The concept makes sense, but teams normally aren't willing to part with much for a player on the tag. It makes it much more difficult.
The winning window for the Titans is right now based on the makeup of their roster. Therefore, they can make moves (restructures, extensions, etc.) in order to free up enough space to keep one of their best young players around. They must try to capitalize, and that means possibly pushing money into the future that could come back to bite them a bit.
Landry's value as an edge rusher is just too much to let him walk out for nothing.
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