Replacing Long Now Becomes A Need For Titans

NASHVILLE- David Long Jr. had injury issues during his time with the Tennessee Titans but was one of the team's current free agents most believed would be resigned by the team that drafted him in the sixth round of the 2019 draft.   

That belief didn't work out as it was announced on Monday, during the first day of legal tampering during NFL free agency, that Long has agreed to a 2-year, $11 million deal with the Miami Dolphins. 

Those numbers seem in line with what most believed would be Long's salary range. 

Speculation as to why the team would not sign one of its up-and-coming young players revolves around his injury history. 

He has missed 12 games over the last two seasons with various injuries. 

At the same time, while on the field, Long produced at a high level, specifically against the run, where he tackled opposing ball carriers for a loss or no gain on 6.6% of his run defense snaps in 2022. That was the 2nd-highest run stuff rate in the NFL (min. 200 run snaps).

However, according to a source close to the situation, it is reported that his injury issues are why the team "moved on" from him and allowed him to sign elsewhere. 

With the loss of Long, the Titans must fill another position st inside linebacker, and there are limited options currently on the roster. 

Monte Rice seems slotted for one inside spot, with Jack Gibbens and Chance Campbell on the roster. Gibbens found playing time late in the season and was a positive for the defense, but he has limited speed and doesn't seem like the best fit for this defense. 

Gibbens worked his way into the position of the defensive play caller on the field as the wearer of the "green dot" on his helmet. He is well-liked by his coaches, but again, his lack of top speed will likely limit his opportunities to become a starter if not for necessity. 

Of course, a few interesting names available in free agency and the upcoming draft, such as Lavnote David and Bobby Wagner. Both might be outside the Titans budget, but they are well worth a look as a potential plug-and-play starter.