Another Titans playmaker gets poached in free agency
Former Tennessee Titans defensive end DeMarcus Walker is in agreement with the Chicago Bears on a three-year contract worth over $7 million per year.
Former Tennessee Titans defensive end DeMarcus Walker, who had a breakout seven sack season in 2022, is in agreement with the Chicago Bears on a three-year contract worth over $7 million per year.
After landing on his third team in as many years in 2022, Walker had a breakout season with seven sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and an impressive 16 QB hits despite only playing on 36 percent of Tennessee's defensive snaps.
Reports earlier this week indicated that the Titans had engaged with Walker in conversations regarding a contract extension. As the market heated up, however, Walker tested free agency, and ultimately cashed in on his career season.
Chicago has now landed OL Nate Davis and Walker in the same day, leaving the Titans with a need for depth on their defensive line. But even if the Titans find a replacement for Walker, it will be tough to find a player that can have the same presence in the locker room.
Walker was thought of very highly by his teammates in Tennessee. Just days into Titans training camp last season, star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons was praising Walker for his play style, effort, and way of carrying himself around the building.
"He'll be a big help for us, especially up front," Simmons said of Walker. "Just his play style, he knows what type of guys he is. His effort, that's what we build our team on. The way he runs to the ball and the way he carries himself during our team period, I know he's one of the guys we'll be able to count on."
As free agency plays out, the holes keeping popping up for the Titans. Let's just hope Ran Carthon and Mike Vrabel have what it takes to fill them.
Image via Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
